Manchester United reportedly hold talks with potential successors to Erik ten Hag

Manchester United have begun discussions with several potential successors to Erik ten Hag, increasing the pressure on the Dutchman as the club navigates a challenging season.

Despite being on a four-game unbeaten run, United have struggled for most of the campaign.

With only four wins across all competitions, they currently sit in 12th place in the Premier League.

Ten Hag managed to survive a meeting of the club’s hierarchy during the October international break.

However, further slip-ups could jeopardise his position, prompting United executives to seek alternatives.

Thomas Tuchel was initially considered a leading candidate for the role, but he has since accepted the position of head coach for the England national team.

This development has led United to explore various other options.

According to the Daily Mail, the club has engaged in ‘secret talks’ with multiple managers.

Notably, a four-man delegation led by chief executive Omar Berrada travelled to Barcelona to meet with Xavi approximately 10 days ago.

The former Barcelona manager has been out of work since leaving the Nou Camp in the summer and is reportedly hesitant to take on another club in Spain.

Also on United’s radar is Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim, who turned down an opportunity to join West Ham during the summer transfer window.

Amorim is considered one of the most highly-rated coaches in Europe.

However, United would face competition from their cross-city rivals, Manchester City, who are reportedly eyeing Amorim as a potential replacement for Pep Guardiola.

Man City have already confirmed that Hugo Viana, Sporting’s director of football, will take over from Txiki Begiristain at the Etihad at the end of the season.

Other candidates under consideration include former Borussia Dortmund manager Edin Terzic and Brentford boss Thomas Frank.

Frank’s exciting brand of football has garnered significant interest at Old Trafford, although Brentford was defeated by Ten Hag’s side last weekend.

Additionally, names such as Kieran McKenna, Gareth Southgate, and Graham Potter have also emerged as possible contenders.

There is a growing concern over the lack of progress under Ten Hag, especially given an expenditure of £200million in the last transfer window.

Nevertheless, the Dutchman remains confident about retaining his position.

“You have to prove yourself every year and when you don’t win, we are always under criticism,” Erik ten Hag said ahead of the draw with Fenerbahce.

“We know that, we are experienced enough. Professional football is about winning games.

“When you don’t win games, criticism is coming.

“But we also know it’s about how you are in the end of the year.

“We are convinced we are in the right direction and if we follow the right path, we will achieve what our targets are.”

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