Spanish football journalist Guillem Balague says Mauricio Pochettino's "passion" for improving club culture is just what Manchester United needs right now.

When the expected formalities of Michael Carrick's dismissal are completed, Pochettino looks set to achieve his "dream" of managing United.

"It's almost impossible for anybody to say no to Manchester United," said Balague to BBC Sport. "The possibility of running a club like that is very attractive.

"Especially because he wants to be part of the Premier League [again].

"The dream of running Manchester United has always been present, no doubt about that."

Pochettino was mentioned as a contender to succeed Louis van Gaal when he was sacked by United in May 2016, then when Jose Mourinho suffered the same fate in December 2018.

The Argentine was the other name on United's shortlist when Erik ten Hag was appointed in April 2022, then again when the Dutchman was shown the door in October 2024.

"You cannot choose in football when you go to a place," added Balague. "The timings are no use.

"He's always said that when he has a wish he just throws it up in the universe and sometimes at some point it all falls into place. It has fallen into place now.

"Yes, he's got a contract with the United States, but I think everybody was aware, including the Federation, that if an opportunity like this appears then he will just take it.

"In any case, football dictates where you end up and he's left enough pointers for the Federation to continue the changes that have taken place which had mostly to do with culture. He changed the culture at Espanyol. He changed the culture at Southampton. He did the same at Spurs. He couldn't do it at Chelsea or PSG, but has done it with the national side.

"That's his biggest passion. He will tell everyone what an elite club looks like and create a culture which is what - in my eyes - Manchester United needs right now.

"It's not about being an easy or difficult choice, it's a dream to be in charge of Manchester United. It is a passion to create a culture and mould the club and then we will see.

"We cannot write the script of what could happen next, but I certainly think he's going to charm everyone."