Manchester United eyeing two candidates to replace Erik ten Hag

The Dutch manager has come under pressure after United’s disappointing start to the season.

Manchester United is reportedly considering Zinedine Zidane and Ruben Amorim as potential replacements for under-pressure manager Erik ten Hag.

Ten Hag’s position at Old Trafford has become increasingly precarious as the team endures its worst start to a season in 61 years. The club has suffered a string of disappointing results, including an early exit from the Carabao Cup.

Though an immediate sacking of the Dutchman is not anticipated, a continued poor performance could lead to the end of his tenure, which has lasted just over a year. According to The Times, Zidane and Amorim are among the top candidates if a change in leadership becomes necessary.

Manchester United currently languishes in eighth place in the Premier League, sitting eight points behind the top four after recording five wins and five losses in their first ten games. Their recent 3-0 defeat to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup and a third-place position in their Champions League group with two losses have only added to their woes.

The situation is further complicated by reports of player discontent, with some players expressing frustration over perceived favouritism within the squad. Concerns also surround the club’s direction under Ten Hag.

Ruben Amorim, the Sporting Lisbon manager since 2020, and Zinedine Zidane, who has been out of coaching since leaving Real Madrid in 2021, are both seen as strong contenders for the job.

Amorim, at just 38 years old, is regarded as one of the most promising young coaches in the world, having won Sporting’s first title in 19 years during the 2020/21 season. Zidane, a highly respected figure in the footballing world, enjoyed great success during his time with Real Madrid, including three consecutive Champions League titles.