Manchester United Parts Ways with Erik ten Hag as Search for New Manager Begins

In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…

• Erik ten Hag was dismissed as Manchester United manager following a poor season start, with Ruud van Nistelrooy stepping in as caretaker.
• Top candidates for the role include Gareth Southgate, Thomas Frank, Graham Potter, Xavi, and Simone Inzaghi.

Erik ten Hag’s turbulent tenure as Manchester United manager came to an end on Monday after a poor season start saw the team slip to 14th in the Premier League standings.

Former United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy will step in as caretaker manager until a permanent replacement is appointed.

Several high-profile candidates have emerged as potential successors, each bringing unique experience and a fresh perspective to the role.

Gareth Southgate, recently free from his successful run with England, is a top contender. 

He transformed England into a competitive force, reaching two consecutive Euros finals. However, his limited club experience, having last managed Middlesbrough in 2009, raises questions. 

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Southgate has worked with current United players like Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw, Mason Mount, and Marcus Rashford, which could smooth his transition to Old Trafford.

Another potential candidate is Brentford’s Thomas Frank. Known for his impressive work with limited resources, he guided Brentford to ninth in the Premier League, outperforming United this season. 

His success in establishing Brentford in the top-flight since 2021 and his strong tactical approach make him a serious option for the role.

Graham Potter, who showed promise with Brighton but struggled during a brief tenure at Chelsea, is also in consideration. 

Despite his missteps at Stamford Bridge, his attractive style of play and previous links with clubs owned by United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS group may work in his favor.

United officials have reportedly engaged with former Barcelona manager Xavi. Known for winning La Liga in 2022/23 despite Barcelona’s financial struggles, Xavi’s appointment would create an interesting dynamic with Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola, his former mentor.

Finally, Simone Inzaghi of Inter Milan has been linked to the role. The Italian led Inter to a Serie A title and a Champions League final in 2023, and he’s been improving his English, signaling his interest in a Premier League future.

As United seeks a fresh direction, each candidate presents distinct advantages, and the decision will be pivotal in shaping the club’s path forward.