Manchester United’s decision to part ways with Erik ten Hag after a disappointing start to the 2024/25 season has sent shockwaves through the football world. After just over two years at the helm, Ten Hag leaves United languishing in 14th place in the Premier League, with a meager eight goals in nine games. The club’s performance in Europe has been equally dismal, with three consecutive draws in the Europa League adding to their woes. United’s decision-makers deemed it time for a change, and now the search for a new manager begins.
With several high-profile names being linked to the vacant role, we take a look at the top candidates to replace Ten Hag and what each one could bring to the table.
1. Ruud van Nistelrooy
Ruud van Nistelrooy, a Manchester United legend and former prolific striker, has been appointed as the interim manager following Ten Hag’s departure. Van Nistelrooy returned to Old Trafford this summer as part of Ten Hag’s backroom staff after turning down managerial roles across Europe. His familiarity with the club, both as a player and now as a coach, makes him a natural short-term solution as the club’s hierarchy looks for a permanent replacement.
Van Nistelrooy’s managerial experience is limited, having only spent one season in charge of PSV Eindhoven. During his tenure, he led PSV to win the 2022 Johan Cruyff Shield and the 2022/23 KNVB Cup before resigning due to a lack of support from the club. While he remains a club icon, appointing Van Nistelrooy on a permanent basis would be considered a significant risk due to his lack of extensive experience at the highest level of management.
However, he knows the club’s culture, values, and expectations better than most, which could make him an appealing option to stabilize the dressing room in the short term.
2. Ruben Amorim
Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim has been on the radar of several top European clubs, including Barcelona and Chelsea. At just 39 years old, Amorim has already built an impressive reputation for himself by transforming Sporting Lisbon into a dominant force in Portuguese football. Under his leadership, Sporting ended a 20-year title drought, securing two Primeira Liga championships in just four seasons.
Amorim’s ability to build an attractive, possession-based style of play, combined with his sharp tactical mind, makes him an exciting option for Manchester United. The club is looking to restore its identity and competitive edge, and Amorim’s success in signing and developing young talent could be a perfect match for the Red Devils.
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, who played under Amorim at Sporting, recently spoke highly of his former manager, praising his football philosophy and leadership qualities. “He has been one of the best managers I’ve worked with. His understanding of the game and ability to win titles in challenging circumstances is remarkable,” Fernandes told CNN Portugal.
Amorim’s stock is rising, and a move to Old Trafford would be his biggest challenge yet, but one that could take both his career and United to new heights.
3. Gareth Southgate
Gareth Southgate, the former England manager, is another name in the mix. While Southgate ruled out an immediate return to club management earlier this month, the Manchester United job could be too tempting for him to turn down. His ability to manage high-pressure situations, transform a dressing room, and bring stability is well-documented after leading England to a World Cup semi-final and two European Championship finals.
Southgate’s calm demeanor and strong man-management skills could be just what Manchester United needs to heal the divisions that have plagued the team in recent years. Additionally, his long-standing relationship with United’s sporting director, Dan Ashworth, who worked alongside him at the FA, could make this appointment a logical fit.
However, critics of Southgate may point to his conservative tactics and lack of club-level experience as potential drawbacks. Still, his reputation for restoring team culture and bringing out the best in his players makes him a strong candidate.
4. Thomas Frank
Thomas Frank, the manager of Brentford, has been widely praised for consistently getting the most out of his squad, despite operating with one of the smallest budgets in the Premier League. Under Frank, Brentford has become known for its smart recruitment and data-driven approach, which has allowed the club to punch above its weight.
Frank’s ability to develop a cohesive, well-organized team on a limited budget could make him an ideal fit for Manchester United, a club that has squandered vast sums on transfers with little return in recent years. His reputation as a manager who maximizes resources and talent could help United reverse their transfer misfortunes and build a team that can consistently challenge for titles.
If Frank were to leave Brentford, a move to Old Trafford would represent the biggest step of his career. Managing a club of United’s stature would provide him with the resources to take his philosophy to the next level, making him an intriguing option for the Red Devils.
5. Xavi Hernandez
Xavi Hernandez, Barcelona’s legendary former player and manager, is another name being floated as a potential replacement for Ten Hag. Xavi led Barcelona to the 2022/23 La Liga title before stepping down in the summer of 2024, citing the intense pressure of managing the Catalan giants and the club’s ongoing financial challenges.
Xavi’s ability to command respect and lead a team with his unique understanding of football’s tactical intricacies could make him a perfect fit for Manchester United. His experience as a player and manager at one of the world’s biggest clubs gives him the pedigree and understanding needed to succeed in a high-pressure environment like Old Trafford.
However, Xavi has been linked to other managerial positions, including the Qatar national team job, and it remains to be seen whether he is interested in taking the reins at Manchester United. Still, his availability, combined with his winning mentality, makes him a highly attractive candidate.
A Crucial Decision for Manchester United
As Manchester United searches for their next manager, they must choose carefully. The post-Sir Alex Ferguson era has been defined by managerial instability, with several high-profile appointments failing to restore the club’s glory. The next manager must not only bring tactical acumen but also the ability to rebuild team spirit and lead the club back to the top of English football.
Whether it’s a club legend like Van Nistelrooy, a rising star like Amorim, or an experienced leader like Southgate, the next Manchester United manager will face one of the most challenging jobs in world football. Fans and the footballing world alike will be watching closely to see who steps up to the plate.
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