Navigating Uncertainty: United’s Search for Stability in Management

Manchester United finds itself at another critical juncture as the 2025-26 season approaches its conclusion. The turbulent tenure of Amorim has left the board in search of a leader capable of bringing lasting stability to a club renowned for its frequent managerial changes. While Michael Carrick has performed admirably as the interim head coach, restoring calm and a sense of identity to the squad with three consecutive wins, discussions about securing a high-profile manager persist within the corridors of Old Trafford.

One name consistently linked with the managerial vacancy is Zinedine Zidane. The Frenchman has not graced the touchline since departing from Real Madrid for the second time in 2021, a situation that has become one of football’s enduring mysteries. Zidane has famously turned down numerous offers from top European clubs over the past five years, with insiders suggesting he has been waiting specifically for the France national team job post-World Cup. However, with the international setup currently stable, the pressing question is whether the three-time Champions League winner could be persuaded to embrace the challenges of the Premier League.

Former United defender Brown has pointed out that the club’s history of appointing high-profile managers complicates the current search. In an interview with BettingLounge, he identified Zidane as the ideal candidate should the club choose to pursue a different direction this summer. According to Brown, Zidane possesses the specific aura and personality necessary to command a dressing room that has seen several high-profile coaches come and go without success.

“United have had so many big-name managers that it’s tough,” Brown explained. “I’d advocate for Zinedine Zidane. I would love that. But again, it is about personalities.” He believes that appointing a manager of Zidane’s caliber would not only earn immediate respect from the players but also satisfy the fans’ desire for a world-class leadership figure. However, Brown cautioningly noted that any new appointment must align seamlessly with the club’s structure to mitigate the friction that has characterized previous regimes.

A significant concern regarding any overseas appointment at Old Trafford is the lack of prior experience in the English top flight. Brown highlighted the challenges faced by recent managers who transitioned from foreign leagues and struggled with adaptation. Both Erik ten Hag and Amorim encountered issues with consistency and internal conflicts, ultimately leading to their departures. Brown insists that the board must learn from these experiences to ensure that the next permanent manager is prepared from day one.

“Is it going to work hiring someone who hasn’t worked in the Premier League? I think that’s a critical factor,” Brown noted. “We don’t want to find ourselves in the same predicament as we were with Erik ten Hag or Ruben Amorim. Disputes along the way must be avoided. It needs to be clear from day one what the situation is and what the setup entails, and I believe that is essential moving forward.”

Despite the allure of high-profile names like Zidane, Carrick’s performance is making it increasingly difficult for the board to consider other options. His transition from coach to interim manager has garnered widespread approval from supporters, who view him as a connection to the club’s most successful era. Brown acknowledged that while there may have been significant issues behind the scenes with Amorim, Carrick has done enough to demonstrate he is more than a temporary solution.

“Clearly, there were issues behind the scenes with Ruben that needed addressing, leading to another managerial change. It simply doesn’t work,” Brown concluded. “While we shouldn’t get carried away with Michael, I believe the majority of fans would agree he’s doing a commendable job—one good enough to warrant continuity in his role.”