Manchester United enters battle with Spurs for former Premier League manager, as the search continues for the Reds’ next long-term manager.
The sacking of Ruben Amorim sent shockwaves through the footballing world. One of the world’s biggest club sides has a vacant manager position, and many top European managers are eyeing up the opportunity.
Though form improved recently under the Portuguese manager, the nail in the coffin was a breakdown in the relationship between Amorim and Jason Wilcox, leading to his departure on Monday.
Former United midfielder Darren Fletcher has taken charge since then, acting as caretaker manager for the 2-2 draw at Burnley on Wednesday. The Reds switched back to a conventional 4-2-3-1 formation, providing the team with a bit more familiarity and therefore freedom.
The search for an interim manager continues, but simultaneously, the board is searching for the club’s next long-term manager, and reports suggest the club is prepared to enter battle with Spurs for a wanted Ligue 1 manager.
United “dream opportunity” for De Zerbi
Reports suggest Thomas Frank’s time at Spurs is nearing an end, with the North London side failing to improve significantly on last year’s dismal league finish. This means Spurs will also be in the market for a new manager and are looking to rival United for Roberto De Zerbi’s signature.
That said, the Reds seemingly hold the advantage as a new development has recently surfaced. CaughtOffside has reported that the Italian prefers United. “He’s flattered by Tottenham’s interest, but United would likely be priority,” it’s claimed.
A huge blow for Spurs’ proceedings, but this proves that United is still a desirable destination for top managers. If the board were to green-light the club’s efforts to secure the signing of De Zerbi, they would have to pry the Italian manager from the grips of Marseille, who have been on an upward trajectory since De Zerbi’s appointment.
The French club looks likely to secure Champions League football once again this season and remain in this year’s instalment of the European competition. This shows De Zerbi’s influence is having a positive effect on the performance of the French side, something the United board is searching for.
De Zerbi previously managed in the Premier League, taking charge at Brighton in 2022, helping to secure the club’s highest league finish in its history. Getting the best out of top European talents such as Moises Caicedo and Karou Mitoma, fans will wonder whether he can do the same with stars like Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha.
Prem-proven managers take charge
Managers with recorded success at Premier League clubs are in a prime position to take charge at United. Oliver Glasner, Andoni Iraloa, and Thomas Tuchel are some of the names reportedly in contention.
De Zerbi fits this bill, juristically improving things at Brighton, finishing sixth and in a European place in 2023, as well as leading the side to an FA Cup semi-final, where they were knocked out by United on penalties.
Glasner’s tenure at Crystal Palace has caught the eye of top European clubs, guiding the London club to its first-ever domestic trophy by beating Manchester City in the FA Cup in 2025. Despite a recent dip in form, Glasner’s managerial ability is obvious, and United will keep tabs on the German manager.
Andoni Iraola follows suit, guiding Bournemouth to their best league finish in the club’s history last season, and getting the best out of now departed Antoine Semenyo and Dean Huijsen. Similarly, despite a steep fall off this season for the cherries, Iraola remains in contention for a shot at the United job.
The club has a plethora of options, and Wilcox and the board will carefully consider any candidates, despite pressure from fellow Premier League clubs.
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