Recent reports have indicated that Roberto De Zerbi, Thomas Frank, and Gareth Southgate are under consideration as potential successors to Erik ten Hag at Manchester United if the Dutch manager were to depart this summer. Sources reveal that Ineos, who now control football operations at the club, are exploring various options to gauge the credentials and availability of these coaches. While De Zerbi, Frank, and Southgate are of interest to Ineos, other managers and coaches are also being taken into consideration.
With incoming chief executive Omar Berrada set to begin work at Old Trafford after a period of gardening leave and discussions ongoing with Newcastle over a potential deal for sporting director Dan Ashworth to move to United, Ineos director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford is leading a structural review behind the scenes. This review includes an audit of United’s player recruitment, with a contingency plan being drawn up in case of Ten Hag’s potential exit this summer.
Since his appointment in June 2022, Erik ten Hag has been under pressure to deliver results and secure qualification for next season’s Champions League. With the club’s new minority owner emphasizing the importance of financial fair play regulations, the need for a top-four finish has only intensified. United’s recent poor form, including successive Premier League defeats, has put further pressure on Ten Hag’s position.
Despite interest from Germany in the Dutch manager, Erik ten Hag could face competition from Bayer Leverkusen and Vfb Stuttgart for potential managerial vacancies at the end of the season. Highly rated coaches Xabi Alonso and Sebastian Hoeness are also being considered for new roles, adding to the uncertainty surrounding Ten Hag’s future.
Candidate Profiles
While Roberto De Zerbi has caught the attention of several clubs, Thomas Frank’s success at Brentford and Gareth Southgate’s experience with England make them viable candidates for the Manchester United job. Frank’s high-energy approach and data-led recruitment strategy have earned him admirers, while Southgate’s relationship with key figures at the club could work in his favor.
Uncertainty Surrounding Erik ten Hag
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Erik ten Hag’s position, there is still a possibility that he could turn things around and secure his future at the club. His willingness to promote young talents and capitalize on United’s tradition of youth development has been noted, but the financial implications of terminating his contract and hiring a new manager remain a concern for the club.
Preparation for Every Eventuality
In light of the current uncertainties facing Manchester United, efforts are being made to plan for every eventuality. Whether it be retaining Erik ten Hag, appointing a new manager, or exploring other options, the club is taking proactive steps to ensure the smooth operation of football operations at Old Trafford.