Manchester United’s start to the 2024-2025 season has been underwhelming, leaving fans and football pundits questioning the club’s current direction.With just five games played, the Red Devils find themselves languishing in 11th place in the Premier League.
Their difficulties were further highlighted in the Europa League opener at Old Trafford, where they were held to a disappointing draw by FC Twente, bringing to light the ongoing struggles within the team.Despite a busy summer transfer window where Manchester United spent heavily to bring in new players, the team’s performances have not lived up to the expectations that come with such significant investments.
Many of the same issues that plagued the squad last season remain, sparking concerns about whether the current approach is effective.This situation has put manager Erik ten Hag under increased pressure, with many questioning whether he is the right man to reverse the club’s fortunes.
As Ten Hag faces mounting scrutiny, rumors regarding his future have begun to circulate.Various reports suggest that Manchester United’s board may already be considering potential replacements if the team’s lackluster results continue.
According to Football Insider, Newcastle United’s manager Eddie Howe is being seriously considered as a possible successor to Ten Hag, should the Dutchman be dismissed.
Howe has garnered a strong reputation during his tenure at Newcastle, where he has led a transformation that saw the club secure a place in the Champions League for the first time in years. However, recent tension between Howe and Newcastle’s sporting director, Paul Mitchell, has raised questions about the manager’s future at St James’ Park. Their public disagreement has sparked speculation that Howe might be open to a move, and Manchester United is reportedly keeping a close eye on the situation.
At 46 years old, Eddie Howe is highly regarded in football, particularly for his success in the Premier League. His calm demeanor, tactical nous, and ability to improve teams have made him an attractive option for Manchester United’s leadership. The progress Newcastle has made under Howe, particularly in reaching the Champions League, has impressed the hierarchy at Old Trafford, who are now evaluating whether he could be the one to rejuvenate their own team.
However, it’s unlikely that Newcastle would let Howe leave without a fight. The club values the significant progress made under his leadership and is keen to retain him as manager. But with the recent shift in Newcastle’s power dynamics following the appointment of Paul Mitchell as sporting director, tensions between the two could influence Howe’s decision to stay or seek new opportunities elsewhere.
Meanwhile, Ten Hag, who appeared to have job security after Manchester United’s summer business, is now under more pressure to deliver results. The team’s inconsistent performances, particularly their failure to consistently challenge for a top-four spot, have raised doubts about his future. If United’s form doesn’t improve soon, the possibility of a managerial change will grow stronger, with Howe emerging as a serious candidate to step in.
As the season unfolds, the situations at both Manchester United and Newcastle United will be closely watched. If Manchester United’s struggles continue and Howe’s relationship with Newcastle deteriorates, the prospect of Howe taking over at Old Trafford could become more realistic. However, with uncertainty still surrounding both clubs, the outcome remains uncertain, and the coming months will be pivotal in determining the futures of both managers.
