Manchester United are ‘beginning to consider a possible change in their management’ following a poor run of results, according to a report in Spain – and a three-man shortlist has emerged.
Ruben Amorim recently admitted that he is “fighting for his job” in the second half of the campaign as his side continue to struggle in all competitions.
As well as being knocked out of the Carabao Cup and FA Cup this season, United currently sit 14th in the Premier League table having picked up just nine wins from a possible 27.
Since taking over in November, Amorim himself has lost eight of his 16 league games, although their decent form in the Europa League continues to offer glimmers of hope in an otherwise turgid spell.
At this moment in time there has been no indication that United’s form has put any pressure on Amorim’s position as head coach.
But amid their struggles, a report from Spanish publication Fichajes suggest those behind the scenes at Old Trafford are already “analysing possible replacements” in case the situation does not improve in the coming months.
Three names feature in the report, with the first being former Germany manager Joachim Low.
The 65-year-old, who has been out of work since stepping down from his role as Germany head coach in 2021, is said to be “an attractive option due to his ability to manage dressing rooms with great figures.”
Julen Lopetegui is another potential candidate. The former Real Madrid, Sevilla and West Ham manager is a profile that is “liked”, according to the report, with his ability to rebuild projects and make competitive teams mentioned.
The third name mentioned is Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri, who has long been linked with a move to the Premier League. He is said to be a “solid alternative due to his experience in the elite and his success in Serie A.”
Amorim after United’s FA Cup defeat to Fulham. Image credit: Getty
Of course, the likelihood of Amorim being dismissed so early into his Old Trafford tenure is slim, particularly given the costs involved.
United would have to pay a total of £20 million to Amorim and his backroom staff if they chose to sack them, according to the Mirror, which comes after they paid out £14.5 million on the sackings of Erik ten Hag and his coaching team.
The club also confirmed in their quarterly accounts that hiring sporting director Dan Ashworth and parting ways with him cost a total of £4.1 million, which includes the compensation paid to Newcastle and the sum he received on his departure.
