Xavi has already made request to Ineos as Erik ten Hag is sacked as Man United boss

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Xavi has emerged as a leading candidate to replace Erik ten Hag following his sacking as Manchester United manager.

Manchester United announced on Monday morning that Erik ten Hag has been sacked following the 2-1 defeat to West Ham on Sunday afternoon.

Defeat at the London Stadium continued United’s worst-ever start to a Premier League season which dropped the club down into 14th in the Premier League table.

Ten Hag’s assistant manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy, will take interim charge of the side with his first match coming against Leicester City in the League Cup on Wednesday evening.

But in United’s statement, they confirm that Van Nistelrooy will take charge “whilst a permanent head coach is recruited” – and there is already one candidate standing out above the rest.

Xavi Hernandez linked with Man United job

It was confirmed last week that United made contact with Xavi Hernandez, who is currently unemployed after leaving Barcelona.

United fans have sent a clear message about Xavi becoming manager, with supporters still unsure about the Spaniard taking charge.

Manchester United CEO Omar Berrada previously worked with Barcelona and Xavi earlier in his career, and he could well be the first-choice target to take the Old Trafford hot seat.

However, there are as many as 10 potential replacements for Ten Hag with United also making contact with Edin Terzic over the job vacancy.

Xavi Hernandez makes request amid Man United links

According to Sky Sports and journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Xavi has already made a request ahead of potentially becoming the next Manchester United manager.

It is claimed that the United hierarchy, led by Berrada, have made Xavi the “concrete” favourite to replace Ten Hag.

They add that Xavi has “expressly asked to be assisted by well-known former Old Trafford players” as part of his backroom staff if he is appointed as manager.

READ MORE: Man United fans in total agreement as Erik ten Hag is sacked as they make clear point to INEOS

No names of United legends have been confirmed, but Xavi is reportedly keen to have former players alongside him in his United coaching staff.

Van Nistelrooy is already part of the backroom staff at Old Trafford and could be one option to help Xavi if he takes the reins.