Inter Milan’s manager, Simone Inzaghi, has become a serious contender to replace Erik ten Hag as Manchester United boss, should the Dutchman be sacked.
Ten Hag’s position is under threat following Manchester United’s dismal 3-0 home defeat to Tottenham last weekend. With the team languishing in 12th place in the Premier League table, just four points above the relegation zone, United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly considering Ten Hag’s future during the next international break.
United face Porto in the Europa League on Thursday and Aston Villa in the Premier League, and Ten Hag desperately needs positive results to halt the team’s alarming slide. The Red Devils have won only two of their last seven games in all competitions.
Ratcliffe is reluctant to dismiss Ten Hag, having extended his contract in the summer. However, he will consult fellow owners the Glazers, sporting director Dan Ashworth, and chief executive Omar Berrada before making a decision.
If Ten Hag is sacked, Ratcliffe may target Inzaghi or Gareth Southgate, who has admirers at Manchester United and is close friends with Ashworth. Inzaghi has impressed United bosses with his achievements at Inter Milan, including five trophies, including the Serie A title last season.
Inzaghi led Inter to their first Champions League final in 13 years in 2023 and has made the team hard to beat. However, if he were to take charge of United, he would be encouraged to adopt a more attacking style.
The 48-year-old signed a new deal with Inter earlier this year, and it remains to be seen if he could be persuaded to accept the challenge of restoring United to their former glory.
United’s poor start to the season has raised concerns among fans and the board, with many questioning Ten Hag’s tactics and ability to inspire the team.
Inzaghi’s experience and success in Italy make him an attractive option, but United would need to navigate his existing contract with Inter. Southgate’s availability and familiarity with English football also make him a viable candidate.
As the pressure mounts on Ten Hag, United’s next few games will be crucial in determining his fate.
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