Roberto De Zerbi is a surprise candidate for the Man United job if Erik ten Hag is sacked – joining Kieran McKenna, Thomas Frank, Thomas Tuchel and Mauricio Pochettino on the shortlist
- United will investigate this week whether Ten Hag will stay
- As many as five coaches are being considered if the Dutchman were to leave
- Has Chelsea offered Manchester United a way out of Erik ten Hag’s darkness through the departure of Mauricio Pochettino? – Listen to It’s All Kicking Off! Podcast
Roberto De Zerbi has emerged as a surprise candidate for the manager’s job at Manchester United should the club decide to sack Erik Ten Hag.
Mail Sport has learned that United sounded out De Zerbi through intermediaries last week, in addition to discussions with agents representing Kieran McKenna, Thomas Frank, Thomas Tuchel and Mauricio Pochettino as part of their contingency planning for Ten Hag’s possible departure.
United will carry out a thorough review of the season this week to determine whether Ten Hag will be allowed to serve out the final year of his three-year contract at Old Trafford, with the manager left in the dark about his future after leaving Manchester. for a short break on Sunday.
The Dutchman is confident he has done enough to stay at United after winning trophies in each of his two seasons at the club, especially given his impressive tactical performance in Saturday’s FA Cup final win over Manchester City and the huge progress that young players have made. players.
Zerbi is also being considered by Chelsea as they look for a quick appointment to replace Pochettino, along with McKenna, Frank and Leicester manager Enzo Maresca.
Roberto De Zerbi emerged as a surprise candidate for the manager’s job at Manchester United following his departure from Brighton
Mail Sport has learned that United sounded out De Zerbi through intermediaries last week. Pictured: minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe
United will make a thorough assessment of the season this week to determine whether Erik Ten Hag will remain at the club
The west London club are well aware that they could be competing with United for the same managers, which will see them accelerate their plans this week.
Zerbi is available after leaving Brighton at the end of last season, which counts in his favour, although his combustible demeanor and desire for control over recruitment could be a problem for both United and Chelsea.
The Italian clashed with Brighton owner Tony Bloom over several signings last season and wants significant input into building his squad, while both United and Chelsea have set up extensive recruitment teams.
Maresca is also seen as easily available given Leicester’s financial problems and the looming threat of a points deduction next season for alleged breaches of profit and sustainability rules.
Brentford are said to be demanding significant compensation for Frank, while McKenna is determined to wait to assess any offers as he is also wanted by Brighton in addition to United and Chelsea and has been given a new contract by Ipswich.
