A shock new manager has now reportedly been linked with the Manchester United job, amid question marks around current boss Erik ten Hag's future.
Following his appointment in 2022, the Dutch tactician led the Red Devils to a third-place finish in the league, and added some silverware to their cabinet by winning the Carabao Cup in his first season with the team, sparking optimism around the club.
That feeling has, however, faded away in his second campaign, which many consider to have been a disappointing one thus far.
United are currently in sixth position in the league, six points behind fifth-placed Tottenham Hotspur and 11 points behind Aston Villa, who occupy fourth spot.
Earlier in the campaign, the Red Devils were also booted out of the UEFA Champions League, failing to progress from the group stage after recording just one victory in six matches to finish bottom of Group A.
The introduction of new minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS group has seen United make some considerable changes at the executive level after the British billionaire acquired a 27.7% stake in the club, as well as control of its sporting operations, last month.
Now, according to sources cited by ESPN, the Manchester side are looking at the possibility of bringing about change at the managerial level, with potential candidates to replace the Dutch coach being shortlisted.
While no decision is said to have been made on Ten Hag's future just yet, England manager Gareth Southgate is now reportedly being assessed as a potential successor to the former Ajax Amsterdam coach.
The Three Lions boss' current contract is set to expire at the end of this year, although it is believed he will step down from the position upon the conclusion of the 2024 UEFA European Championship in July.
Ratcliffe and company are believed to be drawing up what has been labelled as a contingency plan in case of a scenario where the Dutchman is no longer at the helm, with Brighton & Hove Albion boss Roberto De Zerbi and Brentford manager Thomas Frank reportedly also being considered.
Sources, meanwhile, have added that the current United boss could remain in charge and clear the air of uncertainty that surrounds him by leading his side to a successful end to the campaign.
They added that what would contribute to him securing a future at Old Trafford is his backing of starlets such as Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund, aligning with the club's tradition of promoting youth development.
The Old Trafford outfit, however, are believed to still be putting plans in place for every eventuality.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
