Manchester United Part Ways with Erik ten Hag: What’s Next for the Red Devils?

Manchester United have announced the departure of Erik ten Hag after a turbulent start to the 2024/25 season, culminating in a challenging defeat against West Ham. This marked a significant moment for the club, as Ten Hag was brought in with high hopes after a successful tenure at Ajax. With investments totaling over £650 million during his reign, his exit reflects the club’s urgency to redirect its path to reclaim its former glory.

While his time at United included victories like the Carabao Cup and a memorable FA Cup win against rivals Manchester City, inconsistent league performances and issues off the pitch overshadowed these achievements.

With Erik ten Hag sacked, ex-player and respected figure Ruud van Nistelrooy has assumed interim management, guiding the squad while the board evaluates long-term replacement options.

Who’s Next for Manchester United? The Leading Candidates to Become the Next Manchester United Manager

With United in search of stability and ambition, several high-profile managers have emerged as frontrunners for the position. Here are the top candidates:

Ruud van Nistelrooy

Ruud van Nistelrooy is set to step in as Manchester United’s interim manager, marking his return to Old Trafford this summer. Earlier this year, the Dutchman joined Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff after declining senior roles in other European clubs.

Van Nistelrooy previously worked with the Netherlands and PSV Eindhoven’s coaching staff before leading PSV’s first team in 2022. During his tenure, he guided PSV to both the 2022 Johan Cruyff Shield and the 2022/23 KNVB Cup but resigned at the season’s end, citing insufficient support.

Although his lack of senior management experience could be a concern, van Nistelrooy’s familiarity with United’s standards and expectations gives him a unique edge.

Xavi Hernandez

Xavi Hernandez emerges as a compelling option, having recently stepped down from his position at Barcelona after two and a half seasons, during which he secured the 2022/23 La Liga title. His departure was unexpected, driven by the mounting pressures and financial difficulties at Barcelona.

Before his time with Barca, he managed Al Sadd in Qatar, winning the Qatar Stars League and multiple domestic trophies. Given Xavi’s legendary status as a player, he would command immediate respect within the United locker room.

Gareth Southgate

Although Gareth Southgate recently ruled out an immediate return to club football, a role like Manchester United’s might be hard for him to pass up. Southgate has transformed England’s team culture and led them to back-to-back European Championship finals, which has garnered attention at Old Trafford.

His background in building a strong team culture could prove appealing as United seek stability after turbulent post-Ferguson years. Southgate’s familiarity with United’s sporting director, Dan Ashworth, from their time at the FA, also adds another level of connection.

Ruben Amorim

Ruben Amorim’s name frequently surfaces when top European managerial vacancies arise. Barcelona, Liverpool, and Chelsea have all shown interest in the 39-year-old, who has excelled at Sporting Lisbon. Under Amorim’s leadership, Sporting ended a nearly 20-year title drought, capturing two championships within four seasons.

Known for playing attractive football and shrewd transfers, Sporting has become a respected club under his guidance—qualities Manchester United could benefit from given recent struggles in the transfer market.

Recently, United captain Bruno Fernandes praised Amorim, telling CNN Portugal, “Since Mr. Amorim arrived at Sporting, they’ve been one of the teams playing better football.” Fernandes emphasised Amorim’s ability to win titles with Sporting as proof of his competence, suggesting he could bring similar success to a larger stage.

Thomas Frank

Thomas Frank has continued to guide Brentford to success despite limited resources, keeping them competitive in the Premier League. The Bees’ success is largely due to data-driven recruitment strategies, which have helped the club thrive with one of the league’s smallest budgets.

With Manchester United’s considerable transfer spending but often disappointing results, Frank’s approach to recruitment could be particularly appealing. Should he decide he’s ready for a new challenge, Frank would face no greater task than helping restore Manchester United to its former glory. It would be intriguing to see how he would fare with more substantial resources at his disposal.

Manchester United’s Strategic Rebuild: Beyond Just a New Manager

United’s decision to replace Ten Hag isn’t merely a managerial shift; it reflects a broader need for cohesion and identity. Despite significant investments, the club has struggled with inconsistent performances, suggesting that the new manager will need to reshape the team’s tactical and psychological foundation. Additionally, United fans are eager for stability, and the new manager’s integration could set the stage for a united direction, both on and off the pitch.

With the upcoming international break, United’s board aims to make a swift yet calculated decision, hoping to unveil a manager who can lead the club back to Premier League glory.

In conclusion, Manchester United’s next managerial choice could redefine the club’s trajectory, marking either a return to dominance or further challenges. This decision remains pivotal as the Red Devils seek to recapture their winning spirit.