As Thomas Tuchel moves closer to becoming the next manager of the England national team, Manchester United fans are increasingly looking toward Zinedine Zidane as a potential candidate to take over at Old Trafford.
Zidane has emerged as one of the top choices among United supporters, ranking just behind Tuchel in terms of popularity for the role of head coach. This growing interest comes amid United’s disappointing start to the current season under the leadership of Erik ten Hag.
Manchester United’s performances have been underwhelming, with the team securing only two wins in their first seven Premier League matches, along with two draws in the Europa League. These results have fallen far below the expectations of fans and the club’s management, leading to growing speculation about Ten Hag’s future.
As rumors circulate about his potential departure during the upcoming international break, the conversation around who could replace him has intensified.
Zidane, a legendary former player and highly successful manager, has long been linked with top managerial positions, and the possibility of him leading Manchester United has intrigued fans for some time.
Zidane’s managerial record includes leading Real Madrid to three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles, making him an attractive option for a club looking to regain its former glory. With United currently struggling, many supporters believe Zidane’s experience and tactical expertise could be just what the team needs to turn their season around.
Before Erik ten Hag’s contract was extended last year, Manchester United had already expressed interest in Thomas Tuchel. At the time, Tuchel was viewed as the frontrunner to take over and breathe new life into the team. However, Ten Hag was ultimately given the opportunity to continue in his role, and Tuchel remained available for other managerial opportunities.
Now, with Tuchel in advanced talks with the English Football Association regarding the vacant England national team manager position, his chances of securing the job have significantly improved. British bookmakers have shifted the odds of Tuchel becoming England’s next manager from 2 to 1.38, signaling that he is the clear favorite for the position.
If Tuchel is appointed as England’s manager, it would likely eliminate him from consideration for the Manchester United role, further boosting Zidane’s chances in the eyes of fans. However, Zidane is not the only candidate being discussed as a potential replacement for Ten Hag.
Several other names have been floated, including Michael Carrick, a former Manchester United player and coach, who has received a fair amount of support. Carrick is currently managing Middlesbrough and has impressed many with his work there, making him a contender with odds of 4 to take over at United.
Ruud van Nistelrooy, another former United player and current assistant to Ten Hag, is also considered a possible interim solution. Van Nistelrooy has odds of 5, reflecting his potential to step into the role if Ten Hag is dismissed mid-season. Additionally, Gareth Southgate, the current manager of the England national team, is another name in the mix. With odds of 7, Southgate is seen as a less likely option but remains part of the discussion given his experience managing top-level players.
As Manchester United’s leadership contemplates their next steps, the debate over who will replace Ten Hag continues to dominate fan discussions. Zidane’s name has gained significant traction, and with Tuchel possibly moving out of the picture due to his involvement with the England team, Zidane’s chances of taking the helm at Old Trafford may increase. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining both Ten Hag’s fate and the future direction of Manchester United’s managerial situation.
