Manchester United’s manager hunt moves closer to decision time every day as fans wait for clarity on the club’s future direction.
There are two top names in the frame, Ajax boss Erik Ten Hag and PSG manager Mauricio Pochettino.
Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth has claimed Ten Hag is ‘very keen’ to hold official talks with United, backing up claims from The Mail that the Dutchman has his heart set on Old Trafford.
Dutch football journalist Johan Inan said this week the time is right for Ten Hag to leave Ajax at the end of the season, and United are weighing up the choice.
Mauricio Pochettino is a man under pressure after his PSG side were eliminated from the Champions League due to a collapse against Real Madrid in midweek.
French outlet Sports France even asked if Pochettino ‘lost two jobs in 17 minutes’ after the defeat, referring to the possible United role along with he PSG one.
United could make decision next month
Journalist Fabrizio Romano says the PSG result is unlikely to sway United’s thinking, but also says the choice is wide open between Pochettino and Ten Hag.
He expects Pochettino to leave PSG, and also believes the next few weeks will be critical with a potential decision even made next month.
Speaking to FIVE, Romano explained: “If he’s [Pochettino] not number one he’s number two – but they are together, Pochettino and Ten Hag, top of the list for Manchester United.
“What happened was not the best for Mauricio Pochettino of course, but at same point people on the board are convinced he could be one of the best men to do it for Manchester United, he’s still on the list, nothing has changed on Wednesday night, the race is still open,
“We expect Mauricio Pochettino to leave PSG, its just a matter of time for Pochettino to leave.
“At the same point for Manchester United its still not decided. They want to take their time, I am sure this month and April will be key, we will have an answer.”
The decision United have is huge, and with two credible, potentially available candidates, it is a hugely challenging one to get right.
Ten Hag is the fresher, more appealing name to fans, but it remains to be seen whether supporter attitudes will influence the decision at all. If Pochettino truly is the manager they want, then they must have the conviction to go and get him.
New United chief executive will be judged on the success of his first hire and how long he lasts. It is vital he gets it right.
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