Gareth Southgate is Man United’s ‘preferred choice’ to replace Erik ten Hag, leading a list that includes names such as Thomas Frank, Roberto De Zerbi, Thomas Tuchel and Mauricio Pochettino.
England manager Gareth Southgate is reportedly Manchester United‘s top choice to replace Erik ten Hag.
The Red Devils are in the midst of an end-of-season review which, when concluded, could see the Dutchman ousted as manager following a disappointing league campaign.
The club’s minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has made a number of significant changes to transform the club off the field and there has been rampant speculation in recent months that a similar change will come in the dugout.
As reported by the Independent, the process could drag on for weeks with the Red Devils unwilling to rush into a decision.
Southgate is the top candidate for the role if Ratcliffe and INEOS decide to part ways with Ten Hag this summer.
Gareth Southgate is reportedly Manchester United ‘s top choice to replace Erik ten Hag
Ten Hag’s future at Old Trafford remains in doubt after the Red Devils’ dismal season
The 53-year-old is currently away on Euros duty with England and is unwilling to discuss his future until after the tournament ends.
This means Ratcliffe and INEOS would have to wait until mid-july to hold discussions with Southgate which complicates the process.
Southgate’s contract with England runs until December this year and the FA want to extend it until after the 2026 World Cup.
He hinted in February that he could stay beyond Euro 2024 and will only make up his mind once the tournament is done.
The report also states that Brentford’s Thomas Frank has been considered for the United job alongside free agents Roberto De Zerbi, Mauricio Pochettino and Thomas Tuchel.
Tuchel is said to have fallen down the pecking order due to some differences in outlook.
Thomas Frank (right) and Mauricio Pochettino (left) have also been considered for the Manchester United job alongside Roberto De Zerbi
Tuchel is said to have fallen down the pecking order due to some differences in outlook.
The former Chelsea boss is seen as short-term appointment while United are keen to build for the long-term after struggles over the past decade.
Tuchel has publicly declared his desire to return to management after leaving Bayern Munich by mutual consent.
