Manchester United’s Search for a New Manager Post-Amorim

Manchester United is currently in search of their seventh manager since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013, following the recent dismissal of Ruben Amorim. In the interim, former United midfielder Darren Fletcher will oversee the team during the upcoming Premier League match against Burnley and the FA Cup third-round tie against Brighton & Hove Albion this Sunday. Sources close to the club have indicated that a decision has yet to be made regarding a swift permanent appointment versus waiting until the summer, when several high-profile coaching candidates may become available after the FIFA World Cup.

The club is reportedly considering two lists of potential candidates: one for immediate hiring and another for a longer-term appointment at the conclusion of the 2025-26 season.

One candidate could be the Crystal Palace coach, who is out of contract at the end of this season and has not yet secured a new deal. Glasner’s recent success, including winning the FA Cup and qualifying for the UEFA Conference League, has significantly boosted his profile. His familiarity with a three-man defense, similar to Amorim’s approach, makes him an appealing option should United wish to maintain that tactical model.

Gab Marcotti and Julien Laurens have begun assessing the managerial options available to Manchester United following the sacking of Amorim. Another potential candidate is the 39-year-old McKenna, who has led Ipswich Town to two promotions and was previously part of the coaching staff at United under both Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Although Ipswich is currently pursuing promotion to the Premier League, a move to United would likely be too significant for McKenna to decline if approached.

The former England manager, Gareth Southgate, has been out of the managerial sphere since stepping down after Euro 2024. While he has not expressed a desire to return to club management, his record of guiding England to two Euro finals and a World Cup semifinal has garnered attention at Old Trafford. As he is currently available, he would not involve any compensation fees, making him a potential immediate contender.

Xavi, who led Barcelona to the LaLiga title during his tenure, is another candidate worth monitoring. Now available after leaving Camp Nou, he has expressed an interest in managing in the Premier League. However, his inexperience with English football and fixture demands could be seen as significant drawbacks for Manchester United, especially considering the struggles faced by their previous managers.

Michael Carrick, who had a brief stint as interim manager at United in 2021, is another name on the list. He has since managed Middlesbrough in the EFL Championship, but his prior knowledge of the United squad could make him a reliable interim option until a permanent manager is appointed.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer continues to be a beloved figure among United supporters, having led the team to the Premier League runners-up position in 2020-21. Although he departed after a series of poor results, his recent experience managing Besiktas could make a return to Old Trafford intriguing, albeit unlikely.

Enzo Maresca, who recently left Chelsea after an 18-month tenure, is also available. His success in the Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup during his time at Stamford Bridge, along with his connections with United’s current executive team, positions him as a strong candidate. However, his tactical philosophy may not align with the current squad’s strengths.

Thomas Tuchel, who has a proven track record of success, including a Champions League victory with Chelsea, could also be considered. While his assertive nature could lead to potential conflicts with club management, his experience managing at the highest level remains attractive.

Mauricio Pochettino has been on United’s radar multiple times over the past decade. His Premier League experience and expertise with major clubs like PSG and Chelsea make him a fitting candidate if they choose to pursue a more experienced manager.

Carlo Ancelotti, currently contracted with Brazil until after the World Cup, offers a wealth of experience and a remarkable track record. His multiple Champions League victories and knowledge of dealing with high-pressure situations would make him an appealing choice.

Lastly, Julian Nagelsmann, still only 38 years old, has rebuilt his reputation with the German national team after a challenging period at Bayern Munich. His previous success at TSG Hoffenheim and RB Leipzig has kept him among Europe’s elite coaching prospects.

Andoni Iraola, the Bournemouth coach, has garnered praise for his ability to maximize the potential of his squad. Though questions remain about how his high-energy style would mesh with United’s current team dynamics, his proven Premier League experience ensures he will be considered.