In light of a series of unsatisfactory performances and increasing scrutiny, Manchester United have decided to part ways with manager Erik ten Hag.
Ten Hag’s initial promising spell gradually deteriorated as the team faced issues with consistency, tactical direction, and overall morale.
Although he secured a few significant victories, the outcomes ultimately did not meet the expectations, leaving United far from the title chase that both the club and its supporters anticipated.
Here are five coaches who could take the reins following Ten Hag’s departure.
Coaching Candidates to Replace Ten Hag
Ruud van Nistelrooy – Manchester United Interim Manager
Manchester United has experienced three interim managers, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer being the only one promoted to permanent manager. The latest interim appointment is Ruud van Nistelrooy, who steps in following Ten Hag’s exit.
The legendary Dutch striker, who played for Manchester United from 2001 to 2006 and netted 150 goals in 219 appearances before moving to Real Madrid, put his managerial aspirations on hold to return to England as an assistant coach.
During his tenure at United, he secured one Premier League title, one FA Cup, and one League Cup. After retiring from international football in 2021, he became the Head Coach of PSV Eindhoven in 2023, winning the 2022/23 KNVB Cup before resigning with one match left in the 2022/23 Eredivisie season, citing a lack of support at the board level.
Xavi Hernandez – Former Barcelona Manager
2010 World Cup winner Xavi Hernandez has previously expressed strong interest in managing in the Premier League.
“I would be thrilled to work there. Everyone tells me that the Premier League is wonderful, a great league to work in. First of all, for the passion with how they live the game. How they treat and respect you, the atmosphere, and the stadiums. So why not? I could see myself in England, definitely; it’s one of the things I’d like to experience in my career,” he remarked in an interview with The Times.
Reports have surfaced suggesting that Xavi has discussed a potential move to Old Trafford, bolstered by his close relationship with United’s chief executive Omar Berrada from their days at the Nou Camp.
Ruben Amorim – Sporting Manager
Ruben Amorim, former Portugal international and current Sporting manager, has emerged as a leading candidate for the managerial position at Old Trafford.
The highly regarded 39-year-old has managed Sporting since March 2020, leading the team through 237 matches and achieving 170 victories. His side currently sits atop the league, having won all nine matches this season while conceding only twice, and he has secured the Primeira Liga title twice.
Gareth Southgate – Former England Manager
Gareth Southgate, the former England manager, recently stepped down from his position just two days after the national team’s 2-1 loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final. He is well-regarded by Manchester United’s minority owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS group, and sporting director Dan Ashworth.
Despite this interest, Southgate stated earlier this month that he is currently content in his life and not considering any managerial role in the immediate future.
“Firstly, I’m enjoying my life… so there’s no rush,” he explained. “I was 11 years committing myself fully to the FA, and I’ve got lots of different experiences. But I won’t coach in the next year, for sure. I’m certain of that. I need to give myself time to make good decisions. When you come out of a really big role, you need to give your body time; you need to give your mind time.”
Thomas Frank – Brentford Manager
Brentford’s Thomas Frank is another strong contender to replace Ten Hag, enjoying high regard from the Manchester United board. Since his promotion to Brentford’s managerial position in 2021, Frank has consistently impressed and was even linked to Chelsea during the summer after they parted ways with Pochettino.
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