By Barasa Eick
Manchester United has faced a turbulent start to the season, with performances across Europe falling below the club’s high standards.
Following Erik ten Hag’s departure, the Red Devils appointed former United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy as interim manager. Van Nistelrooy, who previously managed PSV Eindhoven, will hold the reins temporarily as the club searches for a permanent successor.
Ten Hag joined United in 2022, overseeing 85 Premier League matches during which the team won 44 games, drew 14, and lost 27. Under his guidance, United scored 123 goals and conceded 112, achieving a league win rate of approximately 51.7%. His tenure saw both highs and lows; he led United to a third-place finish in 2022-23 and an FA Cup victory, but mounting inconsistencies and squad tensions ultimately led to his dismissal in October 2024.
Among the potential candidates to replace Ten Hag permanently, Sporting CP’s Ruben Amorim stands out due to his innovative coaching style and success in Portugal. Amorim’s notable achievements include ending Sporting’s 19-year title drought with a Premier League championship in 2020-21, followed by further domestic success. His progressive approach and tactical flair make him a favorite for the role. Other candidates include England’s national coach Thomas Tuchel and former United player Michael Carrick. While Gareth Southgate, the current England manager, was considered, he has reportedly ruled himself out. The final decision will hinge on who best aligns with United’s high expectations and need for consistent leadership.
Since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013, United has employed several managers, each grappling with the pressures of managing a high-profile club. David Moyes faced early dismissal after struggling to meet the club’s high expectations. Louis van Gaal introduced a possession-based style, securing an FA Cup win but facing criticism for cautious tactics. José Mourinho brought immediate results with trophy wins, yet his tenure was marred by internal conflicts, highlighting the challenges of sustaining success. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer boosted morale but ultimately lacked top-level managerial experience. Ralf Rangnick served as an interim manager, openly criticizing United’s organizational approach and underscoring the need for structural change. Erik ten Hag revived optimism by winning the League Cup in 2023 and guiding United to third place in the Premier League. However, recent struggles led to his departure.
Despite these challenges, Manchester United remains one of the most successful clubs in English and European football. Their trophy cabinet includes 20 English League Titles, including 13 in the Premier League era under Ferguson, 12 FA Cups (second only to Arsenal), 6 EFL (League) Cups, with the latest win in 2023, and 21 FA Community Shields (several shared). They have also claimed 3 UEFA Champions League Titles (1968, 1999, and 2008), 1 Europa League (2017), 1 UEFA Super Cup (1991), 1 FIFA Club World Cup (2008), and 1 Intercontinental Cup (1999).
As Manchester United enters a new chapter, fans are eager to see if the next manager can restore the team’s reputation and return the club to its former glory.
Great news 🗞️ 😄