Tuchel, Southgate: Next Man United manager update – sources
Gareth Southgate is high on the shortlist of managers to replace Erik ten Hag if he is sacked at Man United, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that there is support on the Man United board for Southgate’s arrival thanks to his connections with INEOS.
The former England boss’ positive reputation among his players, and ability to work with big-name stars, has placed him as an option for the hierarchy at Old Trafford.
However, Thomas Tuchel has also been put forward as an option if United opt to go with a tried and trusted boss who has had success already in England with Chelsea.
The German is understood to be keen on a return to the Premier League, with the United job providing a path back into football after his Bayern Munich dismissal.
Sources also say there is not expected to be any shortage of interest in the position should Ten Hag lose his job – but there are no plans in place for his dismissal as things stand.
Man United manager shortlist revealed after Erik ten Hag sack twist
Pressure on Ten Hag’s position has been growing since the summer when the boss was handed a new deal following the FA Cup victory against Manchester City.
Many supporters at Old Trafford feel the boss should have been dismissed regardless of the victory, although he still has the backing of the players and the board.
A turbulent start to the season has seen United pick up six points from four games thanks to two wins and two defeats, as calls for the manager’s head continue.
Following the heavy 3-0 defeat to Liverpool, questions about Ten Hag’s long-term future at Old Trafford were raised once more, with speculation beginning about who could replace him.
Southgate was the favourite to take over should Ten Hag have been dismissed in the summer, and has retained favour in the United boardroom after stepping down as England boss.
Tuchel would represent a ready-made option who could guarantee success and is highly-regarded in English football thanks to his Champions League success at Stamford Bridge.
If United’s hand is forced and Ten Hag loses his job, both bosses are expected to be front-runners to take over amid plenty of competition.
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