Manchester United’s three ideal options to replace Erik ten Hag, one would leave his current job in a heartbeat

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Manchester United finally made the decision to let Erik ten Hag go on Monday after months of uncertainty.

It was Sunday’s 2-1 loss against West Ham at the London Stadium which burst Erik ten Hag’s bubble and sealed his fate in the eyes of Ineos.

Manchester United released a club statement on Monday morning confirming what had already been widely reported with Ten Hag let go from his position as manager.

After this announcement, United fans have had their say on who should become the next manager – with Dan Ashworth set to have the ultimate say in the matter according to transfer expert Graeme Bailey.

Now, speaking with United in Focus, Graeme has provided us with an update on the three current most likely options to replace Ten Hag – and takeover from interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy.

• READ: Who is the Man United interim manager? Meet the team replacing Erik ten Hag after sacking

Xavi

One option that we got an update on from Graeme was Xavi, with the Spaniard one of the most linked names following the sacking of Ten Hag.

He explained: “Xavi… they’re aware of him but if the club is run properly now, they’ll be doing due diligence and I think Xavi is one of them.”

Xavi is a name Rio Ferdinand has endorsed, while the former Barcelona boss has already made requests to Ineos should he take charge.

Thomas Frank

Graeme then explained that United have also been in conversation with managers who are currently in work -with Ineos prepared to splash the cash to buy out a manager if he fits.

One of these names is Brentford’s boss, Thomas Frank who has long been linked with United.

Graeme has now explained to United in Focus: “I think Thomas Frank is one of them.”

Frank would be an unpopular choice among fans, and actually, Ten Hag’s only win in the last eight came against Brentford – which is not a good look for Frank.

Julian Nagelsmann

The final name mentioned by Graeme was that of current German manager Julian Nagelsmann.

Graeme explained: “Another one may well be Nagelsmann.”

After being asked if he thought Nagelsmann would leave Germany for United, he explained: “I have no doubt he would [leave Germany job for United].”

Nagelsmann would be another popular choice for the managerial position, and he would bring an excellent style of football to the club.