INEOS, under the leadership of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has recently gained a foothold at Old Trafford, sparking speculation about the future of current manager Erik ten Hag.
While ESPN reports suggest that no concrete decision has been made regarding ten Hag’s tenure, it’s apparent that INEOS is considering various options to mold the team according to their vision. One potential candidate that has emerged is England manager Gareth Southgate.
Southgate’s connections with INEOS director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford and Dan Ashworth, a top target for United’s sporting director role, add weight to his candidacy.
Currently under contract with England until the end of 2024, Southgate’s future may become clearer after the upcoming European Championship.
Despite not having worked in club football since his stint with Middlesbrough in 2009, Southgate believes his experiences with the England national team have equipped him for any future managerial role.
Reflecting on his time with Middlesbrough, Southgate acknowledges his growth since then, expressing confidence in his abilities and readiness for new challenges.
Acknowledging a conversation with Jose Mourinho during his time at Manchester United, Southgate highlights the belief that his current role has prepared him for diverse opportunities in football.
While he remains calm about his future, Southgate is open to the possibilities that lie ahead, expressing readiness for whatever may come.
In addition to Southgate, other names on Manchester United’s managerial radar include Roberto De Zerbi of Brighton and Thomas Frank of Brentford.
However, the club is reportedly maintaining an extensive list of potential candidates should they decide to part ways with ten Hag.
The managerial landscape across Europe is shifting, with Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona all in search of new leaders this summer.
United’s officials are keenly aware of this dynamic, understanding the importance of being proactive in case a managerial vacancy arises.
The potential departure of ten Hag opens up a realm of possibilities for Manchester United, with INEOS likely to play a significant role in shaping the club’s future direction.
As the speculation continues, fans eagerly await news regarding the managerial situation at Old Trafford, knowing that any decision will have far-reaching implications for the club’s fortunes on the field.
