Nicky Butt reveals his pick for the next Manchester United manager
Manchester United’s search for a new manager to replace Ralf Rangnick at the conclusion of the season is heating up, with speculation rife over who they will select. But, if it were up to Manchester United icon and former coach Nicky Butt, there would be just one option.
“We need stability,” the 47-year-old says in the April issue of FourFourTwo, which hits newsstands on Thursday. “They can’t keep putting temporary managers or learners in positions of power.” They require those who have been there, seen it, and done it.
“I’d go to great lengths to acquire Mauricio Pochettino as manager.” He has Premier League experience, he is youthful and passionate, his style of play would suit United, and his backroom staff appears to be on the ball. I had lunch with him a number of times at Spurs’ training facility. You’d want to bet on him.”
Butt would have hoped to work with Pochettino next season if he hadn’t decided to leave his post as an academy coach at the end of last season. However, he confesses to FFT that a significant shift in the club’s direction prompted him to leave a club where he had worked in various capacities since the age of 16.
“I just didn’t view myself as having a future,” he says. “After nine years of coaching, I could feel that things were changing — the dynamics, as well.” I didn’t want to be bitter, so I told Ed Woodward, shook his hand, and walked away. I’d enjoyed working with children at United and assisting them in achieving their goals. I’d really consider it if the perfect job came along, but I’m not actively hunting.”
