Manchester United new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has reportedly shortlisted three managers as possible replacements for under-pressure boss Erik ten Hag
The INEOS supremo is head-on with his transformation agenda at Old Trafford with Erik ten Hag’s position as manager increasingly uncertain.
Sources close to Sir Jim reveal the football enthusiast and die-hard Man United fan, now co-owner, is mauling over sacking ten Hag and getting up to gears with a new man to drive his signature plan for Manchester United.
Daily Mail reports some Manchester United players believe Erik ten Hag could be sacked at the end of the season as ten Hag presses on his move to re-engineer the club’s sporting operations.
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According to the Mirror, three surprise names have made Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s managerial shortlist for the Manchester United job should he decide to part ways with Erik ten Hag.
Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi is top on the list of the INEOS Chief’s favorite to replace Erik ten Hag.
The Italian and former Shakhtar Donetsk manager was thrust into spotlights when he led the Seagulls to their first European competition, qualifying for the Europa League.
Despite an inconsistent run in the Premier League this season, De Zerbi has maintained a revered profile among managers with his masterclass in the European third tier.
Brentford manager Thomas Frank is another name that is in Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s shortlist to replace Erik ten Hag at the end of the season.
Thomas Frank has done a great job with the Bees since leading the team to the English top flight in the 2021/22 season. He has kept the team in the Premier League and making attempts to challenge for a European slot.
England national team manager Gareth Southgate is also said to be in the frame.
Gareth Southgate is said to be Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s top choice for the United role due to his experience in English football. Southgate’s contract with England national team will expire in December and he is said to be close to Dan Ashworth who is United’s target for a sports director role at the club.
Meanwhile, Erik ten Hag still has time to redeem his image and convince United’s new footballing hierarchy he is the right man for the job.
He could boost his credibility by qualifying Manchester United for the Champions League and winning the FA Cup.
