Manchester United conduct first formal manager interview with top target

The English club’s search for a new permanent manager for Cristiano Ronaldo and co next season gathers pace.

Manchester United have interviewed Ajax boss Erik ten Hag about becoming their next permanent manager.

That’s according to the Daily Mail. The report states that the interview took place on Monday. Ajax apparently expect Ten Hag – who is under contract at the club until 2023 – to leave and won’t stand in his way if United come calling, although they will expect compensation of around £4 million ($5.3m/€4.8m) for their head coach.

For now, though, this is all still hypothetical.

While United hope to decide on a new manager in April, there is a long way to go in the process. Nor is there a clear front-runner. PSG boss Mauricio Pochettino, Spain manager Luis Enrique, and Sevilla coach Julen Lopetegui are the other candidates for the job at Old Trafford.

During the meeting, Erik ten Hag wanted to hear about Manchester United budget and plans for the future. His English level has now improved – ten Hag feels ready to try Premier League experience soon. 🔴 #MUFC

Man United will also meet other managers. Process still ongoing. pic.twitter.com/vMTw4iCnCc

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 23, 2022

Tuchel to Manchester United is unlikely

Despite the uncertainty clouding Chelsea’s future, Thomas Tuchel is no longer considered a viable option.

United had been urged to consider an attempt to lure the Chelsea manager to Old Trafford after the UK sanctioned Blues’ Russian owner Roman Abramovich following his country’s invasion of Ukraine.

This turn of events has inserted a huge wave of doubt over Chelsea’s future, not least that of Tuchel’s.

But the German dismissed speculation that he could leave Stamford Bridge last week, insisting he has ‘plenty of reasons to stay’.

“I have said many times that I love to be here and this club has everything it needs to make me happy. There is no need,” Tuchel said.

“We have plenty of reasons to stay at the moment. I do my best and I’ve felt the support here in the club since day one. That makes me feel safe and then I do my best to play my role and push things forward.”

United, meanwhile, will continue to rely on interim boss Ralf Rangnick to lead the team until the end of the season. The Red Devils return to action on April 2 for a Premier League match against Leicester City after the international break.