Manchester United are said to be planning to reopen talks with a previous leadership target if they decide to cut ways with Erik ten Hag after a spate of poor performances. Ten Hag’s position has come under heightened scrutiny following a 3-0 setback to Tottenham at Old Trafford and a Europa League collapse against Porto, in which United wasted a two-goal lead before Harry Maguire’s late equalizer saved a point.
Despite the defeats, The Athletic stated that the club is taking a long-term view to Ten Hag’s future, implying that he could continue in charge even if United lose to Aston Villa this weekend. However, over the summer, minority co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS reportedly looked into new managerial options. They eventually renewed Ten Hag’s contract following United’s FA Cup victory, but are thought to be considering resuming discussions amidst persistent uncertainty.
Former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel is one of the candidates, having previously turned down the position owing to reservations over the club’s internal structure. According to sources, United may re-engage with Tuchel, who has been out of work since leaving Bayern Munich. Furthermore, Ratcliffe is said to prefer Graham Potter or Gareth Southgate, however any decision would involve the club’s overall leadership.
At this point, Italian reporter Tancredi Palmeri believes that United recently contacted Inter Milan manager Simone Inzaghi, who apparently declined in favor of remaining in Italy. Brentford manager Thomas Frank is also reported to be on the radar, having spoken with United prior to last season’s FA Cup final. However, assistant coach Ruud van Nistelrooy, who recently joined the staff following a successful term at PSV, is currently the frontrunner to take over.
