Elite 57-y/o INEOS target eyeing up Man Utd job amid Ten Hag sack threat | OneFootball

Manchester United have reportedly begun exploring options to replace Erik ten Hag following a disappointing start to the Premier League season.

With only three wins from their first eight matches, the Red Devils find themselves sitting in the bottom half of the table, sparking questions about the Dutch manager’s future at Old Trafford.

INEOS were keen on replacing him at the end of last season, and even held talks with Thomas Tuchel but they ended up sticking with ten Hag. However, despite considerable backing in the transfer market, ten Hag has struggled to meet the club’s lofty expectations in the current campaign.

While the board extended his contract until 2026 before the season, they are reportedly evaluating alternative managerial options in case the team’s form does not improve.

The report from TEAMtalk states that the Dutchman’s future is in his own hands, as the next six games will determine his position at the club.

Massimiliano Allegri emerges as a leading candidate

Tuchel’s recent appointment as the England national team manager has ruled him out of contention for the Old Trafford position.

Massimiliano Allegri has now emerged among the leading candidate to replace Ten Hag, as per the report.

The Italian manager, currently without a club, is admired by United’s decision-makers due to his impressive coaching credentials and availability.

Allegri himself believes United’s current squad is strong enough and is confident in his ability to turn their form around without any significant additions.

His resume is highlighted by five consecutive Serie A titles during his time at Juventus, as well as guiding the team to two Champions League finals.

Massimiliano Allegri lifts the Coppa Italia trophy with after winning it with Juventus in 2023/24. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Other candidates on Manchester United’s radar

In addition to Allegri, United have reportedly identified other possible replacements. Edin Terzic, who guided Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final last season, has caught the eye for his leadership in European competition.

Graham Potter, formerly of Brighton and Chelsea, is another candidate under consideration, particularly for his Premier League experience.

Meanwhile, Lucien Favre, who most recently managed Nice, is also on the radar, though he is not seen as the top choice.

As Manchester United continue to evaluate their managerial options, the club is said to be weighing the decision carefully, with a range of experienced candidates available. If results do not improve soon, a change in leadership could be imminent at Old Trafford.