Reportedly, despite Manchester United’s advancement to their second successive FA Cup final under Erik ten Hag, the pressure on the Dutchman persists. Although United initially held a commanding 3-0 lead against Coventry at Wembley, they nearly faced a collapse, conceding three goals in the final 25 minutes and forcing the game into extra time. While they ultimately triumphed in a tense penalty shootout, Ten Hag’s post-match demeanor seemed more reflective of concerns about his future at the club than celebrating potential silverware.
With Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS poised to assess Ten Hag’s position at season’s end, the 54-year-old confronts a daunting task to convince the club’s hierarchy of his suitability to lead the ongoing rebuild. Should Manchester United seek a new manager in the summer, here are five potential candidates:
1. Gareth Southgate: The current England manager has earned praise for his leadership and tactical prowess, guiding the national team to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and the final of Euro 2020. His familiarity with several key United players from the England setup could bolster his candidacy.
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2. Graham Potter: Despite a challenging spell at Chelsea, Potter has displayed promise with his tactical acumen and adeptness in man-management, notably during his tenure at Brighton. His ability to instill a consistent style of play could be advantageous for Manchester United, especially with the backing of the club’s newly appointed staff.
3. Thomas Tuchel: The Champions League-winning coach, presently at Chelsea, has been linked with a potential departure from Bayern Munich. Tuchel’s Premier League experience and proven track record render him an appealing option, notwithstanding prior disagreements with sporting directors.
4. Roberto De Zerbi: Renowned for his attractive brand of football and meticulous approach, De Zerbi has earned acclaim for his work at Sassuolo and Brighton. Although securing his services might necessitate substantial compensation, his managerial stock is on the ascent, rendering him an enticing candidate for Manchester United.
5. Zinedine Zidane: The former Real Madrid boss boasts an illustrious resume, including three consecutive Champions League triumphs. Zidane’s reported desire to manage in the Premier League could align with Manchester United’s ambitions, making him a formidable candidate should he return to management this summer.