Manchester United are in the midst of a significant managerial search, their seventh since Sir Alex Ferguson stepped down in 2013. Following the recent sacking of Ruben Amorim, the club has appointed Darren Fletcher, a former United midfielder, as interim boss. Fletcher will oversee the team for the upcoming Premier League fixture against Burnley on Wednesday and the FA Cup third-round match against Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday. However, sources indicate that the club has not yet committed to a quick, permanent appointment. They appear to be weighing whether to make an immediate managerial choice or wait until the summer, when an influx of high-profile coaches could become available, especially after the FIFA World Cup concludes. This decision will likely hinge on the club’s strategic vision and the caliber of candidates available at either juncture.
With the managerial vacancy now prominent, speculation intensifies regarding who will succeed Amorim. The club seems to have two distinct shortlists: one focused on an urgent hire, and the other considering potential candidates for a strategic, long-term appointment after the 2025-26 season. Here, we delve into the leading contenders on both lists, analyzing their backgrounds, current situations, and potential fit at Old Trafford.
Contenders for an Immediate Appointment
Oliver Glasner, Crystal Palace
One of the prime candidates for an immediate role at United is Oliver Glasner, the current manager of Crystal Palace. His contractual situation is key here—he is under contract until the end of this season but has yet to negotiate new terms. His impressive recent achievements have elevated his profile significantly. Glasner guided Palace to victory in the FA Cup last season and led them into European competition via the UEFA Conference League—a notable feat for the London club. He also has European success to his name, having won the Europa League with Eintracht Frankfurt in 2022.
Playing a tactical style similar to Amorim’s, Glasner favors a three-man defensive system, which aligns with United’s recent tactical preferences. His availability at this moment is likely due to his contractual standing, making him an accessible option for a club eager for a quick replacement. His experience of winning trophies in recent managerial stints adds to his appeal as a pragmatic and proven leader who could quickly adapt to the demands of managing Manchester United.
Kieran McKenna, Ipswich Town
Touted as a promising young coach, Kieran McKenna has made significant strides with Ipswich Town, guiding the club through two promotions and bolstering his reputation in managerial circles. At just 39, he has already earned recognition from major clubs; he was interviewed for the Chelsea job in 2024, although the position ultimately went to Enzo Maresca. McKenna’s familiarity with United’s squad is an asset, having previously worked with the club’s youth teams and senior coaching staff under José Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
His current project at Ipswich involves a promotion push back to the Premier League, but if United came calling with an immediate vacancy, it’s probable that McKenna would consider leaving a club on the verge of elite competition for the opportunity to manage at Old Trafford—a step up that could be difficult to turn down.
Gareth Southgate, Former England Manager
Gareth Southgate is available and has no current management commitments following his resignation from England after Euro 2024. Having led England to two Euro finals and a semi-final at the 2018 World Cup, Southgate has demonstrated tactical acumen and leadership qualities that appeal to Premier League clubs. His status as a former national team manager makes him a viable candidate for an immediate appointment, especially since he would not entail a transfer fee or compensation to acquire.
While he has shown no public inclination to return to club management, his familiarity with top-tier international players and experience navigating high-pressure situations make him an intriguing option for United’s short-term needs.
Additional Immediate Candidates
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Beyond the front-runners, several other highly regarded managers could be considered for an instant appointment:
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Xavi Hernandez: The former Barcelona manager has been out of work since his departure at the end of the 2023–24 season. At 45, Xavi has expressed enthusiasm for coaching in the Premier League and holds a distinguished playing career with Barcelona. However, his lack of experience managing against Premier League opponents and the physicality of English football could be hurdles, especially considering United’s recent struggles with tactical adaptability under Amorim and Erik ten Hag.
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Michael Carrick: Having managed Middlesbrough following his interim stint at United in 2021, Carrick’s deep knowledge of the club and its squad makes him a logical interim choice. Although he left Boro at the end of last season and has yet to voice a strong desire to return to management, his familiarity with the team dynamics and young players lends a sense of stability during a turbulent period.
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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer: The beloved former United boss remains a popular figure among fans. His previous tenure saw the team finish as Premier League runners-up in 2020-21, but he departed in late 2021 after a series of disappointing results, most notably a 5-0 home defeat to Liverpool. Recently managing Turkish club Besiktas, Solskjaer could be considered for a return, especially if the club prioritizes familiarity and emotional resonance.
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Enzo Maresca: The former Chelsea assistant manager and recent head coach at Chelsea (where he won the Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup) could also be an option. His working relationship with United’s current management team and innovative, possession-based philosophy make him a notable candidate—although his tactical approach might require adjustments to suit the Premier League’s physical demands.
In summary, the immediate shortlist is characterized by managers with recent success, familiarity with English football, or existing relationships with the club. The club management seems to be weighing the risks and benefits of immediate action versus waiting for the ideal long-term candidate.
Potential Summer Candidates for Long-Term Leadership
If Manchester United opts to delay appointing a new permanent manager until at least the close of the current season, the summer transfer window could present a richer pool of candidates—many with proven track records at some of Europe’s top clubs.
Thomas Tuchel, England
The German tactician is a well-regarded figure in global football, having previously managed Borussia Dortmund, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea with notable success. United showed interest in Tuchel during the summer of 2024 before he decided against returning to club management at that time. His contract with England expires after the World Cup, making him a plausible summer target. Known for his tactical flexibility and ability to motivate players, Tuchel ticks many of United’s boxes. Nonetheless, his outspoken personality might pose challenges behind the scenes, given the club’s recent history of managerial sensitivities.
Mauricio Pochettino, United States
The Argentine coach remains under contract with the U.S. national team until after the upcoming tournament. However, ESPN sources suggest he’s open to returning to club management once his international commitments conclude. Over the past decade, Pochettino has been linked with United multiple times—most recently in 2022, when he narrowly missed out to Erik ten Hag. With extensive experience at Paris Saint-Germain, Tottenham Hotspur, and Chelsea, Pochettino’s attacking philosophy and familiarity with Premier League standards make him an attractive candidate for the club’s long-term strategic plan.
Other Notable Long-Term Candidates
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Carlo Ancelotti: The veteran Italian coach, 66, is currently managing Brazil but boasts a decorated coaching career with Champions League titles at AC Milan and Real Madrid. His wealth of experience and tactical nouse would bring stability and prestige, albeit at a premium wage. His guidance could also enhance the club’s appeal to top players.
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Julian Nagelsmann: The 38-year-old German coach has revived his reputation since parting ways with Bayern Munich in 2023. Now coaching Germany, his future hinges on the nation’s World Cup run. Once one of Europe’s most sought-after young coaches, Nagelsmann’s tactical ingenuity and adaptability could align well with United’s ambitions.
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Andoni Iraola: The AFC Bournemouth boss has impressed for his high-energy, pressing style, turning a modest club into a competitive force. While some question whether his approach suits United’s squad, his proven Premier League experience and coaching acumen make him a noteworthy figure for long-term planning.
In essence, these summer candidates represent a mix of seasoned experience and youthful promise, with United weighing the merits of each before committing to one. The club’s long-term strategy will likely revolve around identifying a manager capable of elevating the squad and aligning with their broader ambitions.
