Ruben Amorim was sacked as Manchester United manager on Monday after 14 months in charge, igniting speculation over who will take over at Old Trafford. In the interim, Under-18s coach Darren Fletcher has been appointed temporary manager while the club reportedly searches for a caretaker to lead the team for the remainder of the season. AFP Sport examines the potential candidates who could become United’s seventh permanent manager since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013.
Who Are the Leading Contenders for the United Job?
Oliver Glasner has emerged as a notable candidate after guiding Crystal Palace to their first major trophy, winning the FA Cup last season. The 51-year-old Austrian, whose contract at Palace expires at the end of the current campaign, has been linked with several clubs. Glasner, like Amorim, frequently employs a three-man defense with wingbacks but has described his preferred formation as 4-4-2.
Enzo Maresca is another option following his departure from Chelsea last week after a reported fallout with the club’s hierarchy. The 45-year-old Italian won the UEFA Conference League and Club World Cup in his first season at Stamford Bridge. Maresca has also been linked with Manchester City should Pep Guardiola leave at the end of the season.
Former England manager Gareth Southgate, 55, remains admired by the Old Trafford hierarchy and has been linked with the job previously. However, it is unclear if the former Middlesbrough boss would return to club management after stepping down from England duty following Euro 2024.
Unai Emery, 54, has transformed Aston Villa since taking over three years ago. Emery masterminded a thrilling Champions League campaign last season and continues to push Arsenal and Manchester City at the top of the Premier League, highlighting his ability to compete at the highest level.
Darren Fletcher, 41, currently serves as interim manager and could emerge as a dark horse candidate for the full-time role. The former Red Devils midfielder has yet to manage a senior side but has a strong opportunity to impress. Fletcher may hope to follow in the footsteps of former teammate Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who secured the permanent job after a successful caretaker spell.
Thomas Tuchel, 52, currently focused on winning the World Cup with England, has hinted at being open to future opportunities. The German coach, formerly of Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich, could be tempted by the Old Trafford position.
Mauricio Pochettino, 53, who previously managed Tottenham, PSG, and Chelsea, is now in charge of the US national team. United have been linked with him in the past, and he could be available after the World Cup.
Andoni Iraola, 43, has impressed since joining Bournemouth in 2023, setting club-record Premier League points in his first two seasons. His three visits to Old Trafford as Bournemouth boss have included two 3-0 wins and a recent dramatic 4-4 draw, marking him as a noteworthy contender.
When Will United Decide Their Next Permanent Manager?
Manchester United faces a crucial decision in choosing a manager capable of returning the club to consistent Premier League and European success. The shortlist includes experienced tacticians, rising stars, and interim insiders, each offering unique approaches. With Fletcher in temporary charge, the coming weeks will be vital for evaluating potential candidates and ensuring Old Trafford finds the leadership needed to navigate a challenging season.
By Yockshard Enyendi