Manchester United want to appoint new managerial target before the end of the season
Ralf Rangnick’s interim reign was dealt its heaviest blow yet as United were eliminated from the Champions League yesterday night after a lackluster performance against Atletico Madrid at Old Trafford.
As a result, United’s trophy drought will now enter its sixth year, and with Rangick’s position on the verge of becoming unsustainable, the club’s board is poised to act, according to the Daily Star.
Mauricio Pochettino has been on United’s radar for over a year, but PSG’s Champions League failure – they blew a two-goal lead against Real Madrid last week – has tarnished the former Tottenham manager’s reputation.
Erik ten Hag, whose Ajax side was also ousted from Europe on Tuesday night, is also in the race, but when asked about his future after the loss to Benfica, he remained tight-lipped.
‘That (report) isn’t correct!’ When asked if he had started taking English lessons in preparation for a possible move to Old Trafford, ten Hag responded yes.
‘We already speak English at the club since there are so many foreign players in Holland who have been educated in English, so it makes sense.’
Instead, United will reportedly focus on Tuchel, hoping to profit from the upheaval that has engulfed Chelsea as a result of the UK Government’s decision to penalize Roman Abramovich.
United are thought to be impressed with the way Tuchel has behaved himself and presented himself in the face of extraordinary circumstances, although former Chelsea defender Glen Johnson feels Tuchel would have little interest in moving sides.
Johnson told Bettingodds.com, ‘I suppose no, if he gets some guidance from the Chelsea board about a deal being close.’
‘However, if this condition persists for a year, then yes. People will be looking for their own paths to go in the future.
‘However, if this is completed in months and Tuchel and the players have gained confidence in it, I don’t think he’d be interested in the Manchester United job.’
