After Michael Carrick’s departure from Old Trafford, Mauricio Pochettino now looks set to be Manchester United manager, barring any issues with negotiations with the US national team.
The Argentine will be tasked with leading the Red Devils clear of any looming relegation threat from the Premier League and push for a European spot come the end of May.
The 54-year-old will no doubt have to deal with the expectations from the fanbase, who no doubt want to see their club competing at the top level on a regular basis again.
However, if the new manager is to have any chance of fulfilling their demands, it’s vital he immediately removes one player from his senior squad at Old Trafford.
Why Pochettino must axe Dalot from the United squad
Over the last couple of seasons, Diogo Dalot has been a regular starter for United within full-back areas – whether that be off his more natural right or left side.
The Portuguese international has come under constant criticism for his performances, though, with the 2026/27 campaign seeing an increase in the frustrations directed his way.
The 27-year-old has featured in all 10 league games for the Red Devils this campaign, with the vast majority of his showings falling below the levels expected of a senior squad member.
His stats from the current campaign showcase his struggles at both ends of the pitch and highlight why Pochettino must be ruthless with his decision-making.
Dalot has only managed to complete 36% of the dribbles he’s attempted this term, whilst creating just 0.1 big chances per 90 – highlighting his struggles in providing those ahead of him with key opportunities.
Without the ball, he’s been just as ineffective this term, with the defender only managing to register a measly tally of 7.1 defensive contributions per 90 this term.
The aforementioned figure has seen him be beaten by 57% of other defenders in the division, with his lack of quality defensively undoubtedly costing the club key points in the Premier League.
Why £60m Man Utd flop is finished under Pochettino
As is the case with a new managerial appointment, a host of changes will no doubt be made to the United squad, which could see some fringe players be handed an opportunity to impress the new boss.
Pochettino will be looking to implement his high-intensity 4-2-3-1 system at Old Trafford – a formation which saw him reach the Champions League final with Tottenham Hotspur.
A huge importance is placed upon the attacking unit in and out of position in such a philosophy, with the players in such a department tasked with finding the back of the net – but also offering the first line of defence.
Bruno Fernandes will no doubt be integral to the manager’s system, but the same can’t be said about Mason Mount, who could well find himself close to the exit door at Old Trafford.
The Englishman, who arrived from Chelsea for £60m in 2023, has struggled to adapt to life in Manchester and has undoubtedly fallen way below expectations.
He’s featured just 82 times since his big-money move from the Blues, which has seen him fail to register more than 25 appearances in any of his four seasons to date.
The attacking midfielder has suffered 11 separate injury issues during his time at Old Trafford, with his setbacks often disrupting his progress and making him an unreliable figure.
Though, when he has featured, the 27-year-old has failed to deliver the goods, with his stats from his five Premier League games this campaign highlighting his struggles.
|
Mason Mount – Man Utd injuries |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Injury |
Days missed |
Games missed |
|
Unknown injury |
38 |
5 |
|
Calf injury |
111 |
21 |
|
Muscle injury |
11 |
2 |
|
Unknown injury |
13 |
3 |
|
Hamstring injury |
23 |
3 |
|
Head injury |
36 |
7 |
|
Hamstring injury |
89 |
20 |
|
Knock |
20 |
1 |
|
Knock |
10 |
2 |
|
Knock |
43 |
6 |
|
Foot injury |
27 |
4 |
Mount has failed to register a single goal or assist in England’s top-flight this term, which is no surprise considering he’s not had a shot on target nor created any big chances.
His struggles in attacking areas have been compounded by the statistic that Chelsea goalkeeper Emi Martinez has even provided more big chances in such a division this campaign.
His lack of quality in possession is further evident in his 12% cross success rate, which has subsequently seen 80% of other players in his position this season achieve a higher completion rate.
As a result of his abysmal showings in Manchester, huge criticism has been handed his way, with one podcast host claiming that he’s “stealing a wage” at United.
Pochettino will no doubt see the lack of impact from Mount over recent months and hand him the opportunity to resurrect his form – but such a decision would be a catastrophic one from the Argentine.
He and Dalot have consistently proven they are no longer at the level required for success, and any involvement during his tenure could restrict his ability to secure silverware at Old Trafford.
