Erik Ten Hag: 6 World Class Managers Available to Replace Under Fire Man United Boss

Erik Ten Hag: 6 World Class Managers Available to Replace Under Fire Man United Boss

Fred Kennedy
updated at December 12, 2023 at 4:31 AM
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  • Erik ten Hag was appointed Manchester United boss in April 2022 to replace Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
  • The Dutchman enjoyed a debut season with United last term, helping them win the Carabao Cup
  • However, he has registered mixed results this season with the Red Devils, including seven EPL defeats

Erik ten Hag has come under immense criticism in recent weeks owing to Manchester United's struggles this season across competitions.

United have endured a worrying run of inconsistencies, with the club currently unable to maintain any momentum.

The Red Devils have already lost seven of the 16 Premier League matches they have played and currently sit sixth with 27 points.

Erik ten Hag looks dejected during the UEFA Europa League Quarterfinal match between Sevilla FC and Manchester United. Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno.
Erik ten Hag looks dejected during the UEFA Europa League Quarterfinal match between Sevilla FC and Manchester United. Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno.
Source: Getty Images

Last week, Ten Hag's charges stunned Chelsea 2-1, with many backing them to see off Bournemouth over the weekend at Ood Trafford.

However, the EPL giants went on to suffer a 3-0 humiliating defeat, sparking anger and outrage from fans.

The defeat saw Ten Hag come under fire, with a section of supporters and pundits calling for his sacking.

Ten Hag's bright start to life

Calls for Ten Hag's sacking come just months after he helped United win their first trophy since 2017, following their Carabao Cup triumph over Newcastle.

The Dutchman went on to help his side secure a Champions League spot after finishing third behind rivals Arsenal and Manchester City.

The 53-year-old was handed the Old Trafford role in April 2022 to replace Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

According to Sky Sports, the former Ajax boss penned a three-year contract with the club, with the option of a further year.

But with the tactician already facing calls for his sacking, Sports Brief takes a look at six world-class managers Man United could hire to replace him.

6. Julen Lopetegui

Julen Lopetegui has enjoyed successful managerial stints in the past.

He also has considerable experience in the Premier League with Wolves, before his acrimonious exit after he differed with the club.

Lopetegui previously beat Man United with Sevilla in a Europa League final.

5. Graham Potter

The Englishman is currently out of work following his sacking at Chelsea in April after a poor run of form.

While his disastrous stint with the Blues tainted his CV, he does have a positive reputation from his reign at Brighton.

4. Joachim Low

The former Germany national team head coach is also currently unemployed after he quit his role at the team after a 15-year stint.

While he has not coached a top club before, his impressive CV in international football gives him an edge.

His last role at the club was a brief spell at Austria Vienna two decades ago, per Daily Star.

3. Hansi Flick

The German is known for his incredible spell with Bayern Munich, whom he helped win the treble in the 2019/20 campaign.

He followed that incredible campaign with a second Bundesliga title and the Club World Cup.

2. Antonio Conte

The Italian is no stranger to the Premier League, having previously managed Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur.

His last managerial role was with Spurs, where things did not quite work out - leading to his unceremonious exit.

Conte has been linked with the Old Trafford job before.

1. Zinedine Zidane

Finally on this list is Zinedine Zidane.

The French legend has yet to land a new role since his Real Madrid exit in 2021.

Zidane boasts an incredible CV both as a player and a manager.

He helped Real win a hat-trick of Champions League titles during his managerial stint.

Tuchel's warning to Man United

Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Thomas Tuchel firing a Champions League warning to Man United ahead of their meeting.

While Bayern have already booked their spot in the next round, Tuchel has warned United that his side will still be aiming for maximum points when they square off at Old Trafford.

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Fred Kennedy
Editor - Europe Team
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Erik Ten HaagOld Trafford