Manchester United have reportedly drawn up a four-man shortlist of Erik ten Hag replacements
Manchester United have reportedly drawn up a four-man shortlist of Erik ten Hag replacements ahead of potential change in management at Old Trafford. The former Ajax head coach is facing an increasingly uncertain future in the Old Trafford hotseat, having witnessed his Red Devils squad regress significantly since 2022-23.
During his first year at the helm, Ten Hag led Man United to EFL Cup glory and a third-placed finish in the Premier League, thereby securing a route back into the Champions League at the first time of asking.
However, the Red Devils’ European journey ended with an embarrassing group-stage exit, and they have already suffered 11 Premier League defeats this season to occupy sixth place in the table , nine points adrift of the top four.
According to The Mirror, Manchester United have compiled a list of four managers who could potentially take the job of Ten Hag ahead of the 2024-25 season. One of United’s secondary options is former Chelsea man Thomas Tuchel, who is leaving his role as Bayern Munich boss at the end of the current season.
Another coach capturing the interest of Man United is Portuguese Ruben Amorim, who is leading Sporting Lisbon in a Primeira Liga title race versus fierce rivals Benfica.
Leading Brighton & Hove Albion into European competition for the first time this season, Roberto De Zerbi is being considered for the managerial position at Old Trafford. De Zerbi, who is also associated with the upcoming vacancy at Liverpool, has garnered interest for his continuation of Graham Potter’s efforts on the South coast since late 2022.
Zinedine Zidane is another contender for the Manchester United position, bringing ample experience in managing top football talents, having guided Real Madrid to three Champions League triumphs.
‘Our Rodri’… Manchester United fans saw the perfect midfield partner for Kobbie Mainoo last Night
Manchester United fans weren’t just impressed by Kobbie Mainoo on Tuesday night but they saw his ideal midfield partner, too.
If he hadn’t already, Kobbie Mainoo truly announced himself on the world stage as he made his full England debut at Wembley against Belgium.
Not only did he start his first England match at just 18, but he bossed it as well, putting in a fantastic display that earned him the Player of the Match award.
Mainoo has earned rave reviews from Gareth Southgate, Jude Bellingham, Gary Lineker, Ivan Toney and thousands of fans who were all left amazed by his display.
A midfield trio of Mainoo, Declan Rice and Bellingham looked incredibly balanced and it’s how England could line up in Euro 2024.
That’s if Mainoo does make it in the squad for this summer’s tournament but it’s hard not to see him making it to Germany now.
Unfortunately for United, there’s no chance they’ll be able to bring Rice or Bellingham to Old Trafford to partner Mainoo.
But there was another player on the pitch Manchester United fans think the club could sign.
READ MORE: Who is Kobbie Mainoo? Inside the life of Man Utd’s rising star, including his parents, brother and school
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United fans have seen their dream partner for Kobbie Mainoo
Everton midfielder Amadou Onana played the full 90 minutes for Belgium in the 2-2 draw and United fans were very impressed by the defensive midfielder.
Many took to X during and after the game to express their hope United sign him to partner with Mainoo next season.
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One fan wrote: “Glad you see the vision he’s the perfect type of player our midfield needs rn.
“He’s physically fit technically secure and he’s calm under pressure a cheeky £60mil and he’s ours.”
“He is that guy. Far and away my top choice,” another added. While one said: “This should be a fact now. He is our Rodri would be perfect pairing him and Mainoo.”
There was yet more praise, with another fan adding: “Compliments Mainoo better than anyone out there, whilst ticking the boxes for what United are crying out for.”
Another said: “He would be the destroyer while Kobbie is pushed up more, as a #8. Perfect balance.”
Finally, one added: “He is top. A winner and a engine with his profile. People don’t realize his potential yet. Top.”
Can United sign Amadou Onana?
United have been linked with Onana for a while now and may look to firm up their interest in the summer.
It’s certainly a position United need to strengthen once the window opens, with Christian Eriksen and Casemiro past their peak and Scott McTominay remaining limited in a defensive capacity.
A dependable defensive midfielder who can actually help United control games and get the best out of Mainoo is essential for Erik ten Hag.
Onana is an interesting option but Everton have him under contract until 2024 so won’t be letting him go on the cheap, even if they are relegated.
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