As a new week begins, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag faces mounting pressure, with his future at the helm uncertain beyond this season. Since INEOS’ minority takeover of the club, Ten Hag has been under close scrutiny in terms of results, performances, and team identity. While there have been some notable moments, including dramatic late goals, United’s hierarchy is evaluating whether he possesses the qualities to lead them into the future.
If United were to embark on a managerial search today, would Ten Hag still be a top contender? That is the question that United’s decision-makers are wrestling with. It could well be that Ten Hag remains the most suitable candidate, given the limited pool of experienced, modern-thinking managers currently available. Out-of-work managers who could be of interest include Graham Potter, Thomas Tuchel, Julen Lopetegui, Hansi Flick, and Antonio Conte. Managers who are still in their current roles but have been linked with the United position include England’s Gareth Southgate, Brighton’s Roberto De Zerbi, Bologna’s Thiago Motta, Ruben Amorim of Sporting Lisbon, and Girona’s Michel.
While these candidates represent a diverse range of approaches, none offer a guarantee of success. New technical director Jason Wilcox will have a significant say in making a judgment call on Ten Hag’s future, which will include assessing his compatibility with the club’s evolving philosophy. The backroom group assembled by INEOS has a specific vision for the team’s organization and style of play, and they must decide whether Ten Hag aligns with that vision.
Some sources suggest that it may not make sense for Ten Hag to continue beyond this season, yet there is a recognition that the next manager, whoever it may be, will face immense pressure and expectations. United are determined to avoid a repeat of past managerial failures. Thomas Tuchel, who is leaving Bayern Munich at the end of the season, is arguably the most qualified candidate. His Champions League credentials and tactical acumen would inspire confidence, but his acrimonious departures from Chelsea and Bayern raise questions about his suitability for United’s current setup.
Graham Potter, the former Brighton and Chelsea manager who has been praised by Darren Bent on talkSPORT, is highly regarded by figures within United’s new leadership. It has even been suggested that he has held secret meetings with Dan Ashworth, who is set to become United’s sporting director. Should United decide to make a managerial change, Potter would be a serious contender.
Gareth Southgate also has strong connections within United, with Dave Brailsford, a key figure at the club as Director of Sport, being a long-time friend and supporter of the England manager. However, Southgate’s commitment to Euro 2024 complicates the situation, as United cannot afford to delay an appointment indefinitely. They could potentially name him as their next manager and allow him to join after the tournament, but that would be an unconventional arrangement.
Roberto De Zerbi of Brighton is an attainable target due to his release clause, and he is believed to be seeking a step up in his career. Liverpool reportedly had concerns about his suitability for a bigger club, but United may not share those reservations. At a time when United are leaning towards appointing a head coach rather than a traditional manager, De Zerbi’s tactical expertise and understanding of different systems make him an attractive option. Ten Hag’s positional setups are one aspect that Wilcox is carefully analyzing, and De Zerbi’s pressing style could align with the club’s desired approach.
The next manager must also be capable of overseeing a significant squad transformation. United are looking to offload senior players like Casemiro, Raphael Varane, Christian Eriksen, and possibly Harry Maguire, and replace them with emerging talents rather than established stars. This means that meeting expectations next season, both in terms of league position and trophy challenges, could be just as daunting as it has been this year.
United’s hierarchy is willing to be patient, but only if they have faith in the person leading the team. The club’s fortunes on the pitch will not change overnight, and they are unlikely to be challenging for major trophies by this time next year. However, this managerial decision is crucial for United’s aspirations of returning to the elite of European football within the next five years. Is Erik ten Hag the man they can trust to guide them on that journey?
