Manchester United midfielder Andrey Santos has declined to speculate about Mauricio Pochettino's expected appointment as the club's next manager, insisting his focus remains on Brazil.
The 22-year-old was questioned during a press conference in Singapore on Thursday, when United confirmed Michael Carrick's dismissal following a disastrous start to the season.
Pochettino has agreed a two-and-a-half-year deal to take charge at Old Trafford, although an official announcement remains outstanding.
Santos, who joined United from Chelsea during the summer, also discussed the pressure of representing his club and country.
Santos refuses to speculate about Pochettino
Speaking during Brazil's international preparations, Santos admitted he was not following the managerial developments closely enough to offer an assessment.
"On Pochettino, it's hard to say because I don't know what's happening," he said.
"My focus is only here. I'm focused on doing my job, playing well and performing well."
His comments came as United prepared for another managerial change.
Carrick was dismissed on Thursday after overseeing just one victory in ten Premier League matches, leaving the club eighteenth in the table.
Pochettino, currently managing the United States national team, is expected to replace him after the international break.
The Argentine previously coached Chelsea during the 2023-24 season, although Santos spent much of that campaign away on loan.
Brazil midfielder embraces pressure and targets 2030 World Cup
Despite United's difficult situation, Santos insisted he welcomes the expectations that accompany playing for a major club.
"First of all, of course I really like pressure," he explained.
"I think if you want to achieve something and work hard, you have to live with pressure."
He added:
"I have a lot of pressure there at Manchester United, and I have a lot of pressure here too."
Santos also reflected on missing Brazil's squad for the 2026 World Cup.
"I was part of the process for the last World Cup," he said.
"Of course, I wanted to be in the final squad, at the World Cup, but the manager chose another player."
The midfielder is now determined to remain involved with Carlo Ancelotti's national team as preparations begin for 2030.
"I couldn't be there in 2026, but now I have to work hard at my club to keep being here and think about the 2030 World Cup."
He also highlighted his versatility, explaining that he can operate in defensive or more advanced midfield roles.
"Wherever the manager needs me, I'll always do my best."
Key Points
- Santos declined to comment on Pochettino's expected appointment at Manchester United.
- Sky Sports reports that Pochettino has agreed a deal following Carrick's dismissal.
- Santos says he welcomes pressure and is targeting a place at the 2030 World Cup.
What's Next?
Brazil face Japan on Saturday before meeting Singapore on Tuesday. United return to Premier League action against Liverpool on 22 November, potentially under Pochettino's management.
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