Manchester United are on the hunt for a new manager after sacking Ruben Amorim following the draw with Leeds – but the club’s hierarchy are divided over what to do
Manchester United’s hierarchy are divided over who should be the club’s next manager. The Glazers and Sir Jim Ratcliffe have begun the hunt for a new gaffer following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim.
However, the decision-makers at Old Trafford are torn between appointing someone immediately or holding off until the summer. Potential candidates include Oliver Glasner, Enzo Maresca, Laurent Blanc, Xavi, Mauricio Pochettino and Zinedine Zidane.
Darren Fletcher has stepped in as caretaker manager following Amorim’s departure and could lead United in their next two matches while the board make their decision.
Securing a top-four finish and Champions League qualification is United’s main goal this season. However, expecting managerial novice Fletcher to achieve this is seen as a tall order.
United are aware they could secure Glasner in the coming weeks, provided an agreement can be reached with Crystal Palace. Glasner is considered one of the frontrunners due to his impressive tenure at Palace.
However, there are lingering doubts about Glasner’s lack of experience managing a giant like United.
Pochettino and even Thomas Tuchel are also being considered. But this would require the Old Trafford chiefs to wait until after the World Cup to attempt to entice either of them to United.
Pochettino will be at the helm for host nation USA at the finals, while Tuchel will spearhead England’s campaign. However, if United choose to wait, there are concerns about potential further damage between now and season’s end.
United can hardly afford another season without European football. A top six finish is the bare minimum expected of whoever takes the reins.
Amorim was dismissed after a 14-month tenure, following his outburst after United’s 1-1 draw at Elland Road. However, it’s believed that Ratcliffe and Co had already decided to sack Amorim before the Leeds match, having lost confidence in the Portuguese coach.
His departure marks yet another undignified episode in the turbulent reign of Ratcliffe and INEOS. Amorim leaves with United sitting sixth in the table, following just one victory in their last five matches.