Pochettino responds to next move questions amid intense Man Utd links

Mauricio Pochettino Red Star Tottenham TEAMtalk

Former Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino kept his cards close to his chest when the questions turned to his next move when speaking at the launch of new television channel LaLigaTV.

The future of the Argentine has been the subject of great speculation, with a sensational recent report claiming he had already made a key demand if he were to take over the reins at Old Trafford.

Key Man Utd figures were then reported to be hopeful that his replacing of incumbent manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could be organised before the start of next season.

Now, speaking to the media on Wednesday night, the 47-year-old was careful to keep his options open regarding his next move.

When asked what it would take to bring him back to LaLiga, the ex-Espanyol manager cheekily retorted (via online publication FootballLondon): “Sorry, I don’t understand the question!”

“I am now trying to watch a lot of football and spend time with my family. It’s good that I’m free for the next two weeks [to take up the LaLigaTV free for a fortnight offer].”

“As for La Liga, I am Argentine, but half Argentine and half Spanish, Catalan. A good mix.

“For me I was so lucky to start my career like a manager in Espanyol in Barcelona and then to come here to the Premier League to England, to learn English and different cultures.

“Of course, I am a better person today with more knowledge. I am living a great experience.

“The Premier League is the Premier League, but I think it’s a great opportunity for the people in the UK to be fans of La Liga and have very close contact.

“Of course football was born here in England but La Liga has amazing football and amazing coaches. Today it’s a reference of players, a reference of coaches and the football in the last 20 years that is shown around the world.

“Like a coach, with Gustavo, we always try to be in the best place. I think England and Spain are the two best leagues in the world.”

Meanwhile, current Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted a key decision ‘backfired’ after providing a worrying injury update on star man Marcus Rashford.

The Red Devils ran out 1-0 winners over Wolves in the FA Cup third round replay, but the celebrations were muted after substitute Rashford had to depart after clutching his lower back following a challenge with Matt Doherty.