Manchester United have had a challenging start to the season, intensifying the pressure on manager Ten Hag. Despite the scrutiny and a crucial board meeting held in London last Tuesday, Ten Hag remains at the helm at Old Trafford, poised to lead the team against Brentford on Saturday. However, there are considerations for a managerial change if the team’s form doesn’t improve. Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos might contemplate such a change, yet one potential candidate has recently secured a different position. The Manchester Evening News (MEN) provides updates on the current managerial landscape at United, including insights on Ten Hag, Tuchel, and Zidane.
United has refused to comment on rumors about Ten Hag’s future and has not engaged in discussions regarding a possible managerial switch. An external source claimed that Tuchel, now the England manager, had a verbal agreement ready to replace Ten Hag, should he be dismissed. However, this has been denied by Manchester United officials.
Tuchel’s appointment as England’s head coach was confirmed on Wednesday morning, eight days after he inked his contract. Despite the FA’s initial intent to delay the announcement to prevent distractions from the current squad, Tuchel has been introduced following the two Nations League matches. His contract spans 18 months, concluding at the 2026 World Cup, and he will officially commence duties on January 1, while Lee Carsley will oversee the November matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland. Tuchel expressed his excitement, saying:
Thomas Tuchel said, “They made it clear it’s about football and that got me excited. I wasn’t sure this was the job for me because the schedule is very different. The offer came at the right time and we found a vision to share. Now I have to live up to it. I know there are some trophies and I want to help that happen.”
Ineos reportedly has an interest in Zidane, and United executives plan to keep communications open with him in case there is a managerial transition. The Independent has reported that Zidane remains a figure of interest for the club should Ten Hag’s situation evolve.