Top 5 Updated Contenders to Succeed Erik Ten Hag as Manchester United Manager

When the heat intensifies on a football manager, it can be a challenging situation to navigate. Typically, this pressure builds over several weeks, during which a series of disappointing results often prompts a club to publicly support their coach. However, this usually signals impending trouble, and if performance doesn’t improve, a quick announcement of the manager’s departure often follows.

At Manchester United, this scenario has stretched over several months as Erik Ten Hag struggles to find his footing. The team’s 3-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford marked yet another low point in what has become a concerning trend.

The club had the chance to part ways with Ten Hag during the summer, but a FA Cup victory over Manchester City obscured the board’s judgment, causing them to overlook the fact that United had endured a dismal season that saw them finish eighth in the Premier League.

Currently sitting in 12th place with more losses than wins and a goal difference of -3 after just six games, the situation is dire. Upcoming matches against FC Porto and Aston Villa are likely to exacerbate the team’s struggles.

In light of this, here are five potential candidates who could replace Ten Hag and thrive in the right environment. This list focuses on the ‘best’ available options rather than the ‘most likely.’

1. Thomas Frank

A legendary figure at Brentford for leading them to the Premier League, Thomas Frank has been linked to various top jobs for good reason. Despite a rocky season impacted by Ivan Toney’s betting ban, Frank’s tenure has largely been characterized by the attacking football that has been sorely lacking at Manchester United. His team’s ability to challenge opponents consistently is evident, as demonstrated by their quick-fire scoring against major teams like Manchester City and Tottenham this season. Frank’s approach would invigorate United fans, who yearn for a dynamic and entertaining style of play.

2. Ruben Amorim

At just 39 years old, Ruben Amorim is a young yet highly accomplished manager. His work with Sporting CP has produced some of the most attractive football in Europe, making his team a standout in both league and Champions League performances. Amorim has built a side that balances defensive solidity with attacking flair, emphasizing control and creativity in midfield. His ability to foster individual expression within a cohesive structure would resonate well with United supporters who desire a proactive style of play.

3. Kieran McKenna

Kieran McKenna’s contract extension at Ipswich Town was their best signing of the summer, considering his ability to lead the team back to the top flight with impressive results. Having previously worked under Ralf Rangnick at United, McKenna brings familiarity with the club’s environment and an adaptable approach that emphasizes balance and resilience. His current work at Ipswich showcases a promising trajectory, and his calm, intelligent coaching style could benefit United significantly.

4. Zinedine Zidane

Though it may seem improbable, Zinedine Zidane’s strong personality and impressive track record could be exactly what Manchester United needs. A proven winner with three consecutive Champions League titles at Real Madrid, Zidane’s approach focuses on speedy, attacking football while managing high-profile players effectively. His commanding presence at Old Trafford could instill a level of ruthlessness and discipline that has been missing in recent years, making him a strong candidate despite his current hiatus from management.

5. Graham Potter

Graham Potter’s challenging stint at Chelsea has drawn comparisons to David Moyes’s struggles at United, yet he deserves another chance to prove himself. Known for his tactical flexibility, Potter often employs a three-at-the-back system that would bring a refreshing change to United’s current style. With a focus on integrating younger players and fostering their development, Potter could harness the fresh talent at United to initiate a much-needed revival. He’s eager to move past his Chelsea experience and could be well-positioned to take on a project at a club like United.