Graham Potter is set to make a managerial comeback, following his departure from the role of Chelsea head coach eight months ago, as reported by 90min. Despite signing a five-year contract last September to replace Thomas Tuchel, Potter was let go in April after a disappointing record of only 12 wins out of 31 games.
Since leaving Chelsea, Potter has reportedly turned down opportunities from Lyon and Leicester, and dismissed links to Championship side Stoke City. However, the latest information suggests that he is now gearing up for a return to management in 2024.
Recent reports have linked Potter to the managerial position at Manchester United, where Erik ten Hag is currently facing immense pressure after a troubled start to the season. Manchester United’s 12th defeat, suffered against Bayern Munich, led to their elimination from the Champions League, marking their worst performance in the group stage since 1992.
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United, unable to drop into the Europa League after finishing at the bottom of their group, find themselves in a challenging position, sitting sixth in the Premier League with seven losses in 16 games. The recent 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth has intensified the scrutiny on Ten Hag, who has already dealt with rumors of dressing room unrest.
Bookmakers consider Potter the frontrunner to replace Ten Hag at Old Trafford, and there is reported admiration for Potter’s work within INEOS, the company chaired by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, which is close to acquiring a 25% stake in Manchester United. Potter was previously a contender for the managerial role at OGC Nice, also owned by INEOS.
Despite the interest in Potter, there are currently no plans for significant changes in Manchester United until a new football department is established. The decision might ultimately hinge on results, with Ten Hag backed so far to reverse the club’s fortunes. United has faced off-field challenges, including discontent over their recent transfer market activity, but there were glimpses of improvement on the field last year when they ended a six-year trophy drought by winning the Carabao Cup.
Potter’s impressive managerial history includes a successful three-and-a-half year stint at Brighton, where he laid the groundwork for the club’s upward trajectory. Additionally, he had spells at Swansea City and Ostersund, leading the latter from Sweden’s fourth tier to the Europa League in the 2017/18 season, famously beating Arsenal 2-1 at the Emirates Stadium along the way.