The search for Manchester United's next permanent manager has taken dramatic turns, with a club legend expressing interest and a top European boss reportedly turning the role down. This follows the dismissal of Ruben Amorim earlier this week.
Amorim's Departure and the Interim Solution
Manchester United parted ways with head coach Ruben Amorim on Monday morning, citing a run of poor results and increasing tensions behind the scenes. The Portuguese manager's exit came with the team in sixth place in the Premier League, three points adrift of the Champions League positions.
While this represented an improvement on last season's dismal 15th-place finish, it was deemed insufficient for the club's ambitions. Former midfielder Darren Fletcher has taken interim charge, overseeing a 2-2 draw with Burnley and confirming he will lead the side for this weekend's FA Cup tie against Brighton.
The club is still deciding on a caretaker manager to see out the season, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Michael Carrick also in contention alongside Fletcher. A permanent appointment is not expected until the summer.
Xavi Ready for Premier League Challenge
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, former Barcelona maestro and manager Xavi Hernandez is 'very open' to discussions with Manchester United about the vacant hot seat. The 45-year-old, who has been out of management since leaving Barcelona in May 2024, is said to be eager for a new challenge and would 'love' a job in the Premier League.
Xavi boasts an incredible pedigree, having won eight La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues as a player at the Camp Nou. He also secured a Spanish league title during his three-year stint as Barcelona's manager. The prospect of reviving one of the world's biggest clubs is understood to be a significant attraction for him.
Top Target Inzaghi Says No
However, not every candidate is convinced by the project at Old Trafford. Italian publication Tuttosport reports that Simone Inzaghi has already rejected an approach from United to take over in the summer.
The 49-year-old, who led Inter Milan to a Serie A title in 2024 and two Champions League finals, moved to Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal last summer. He is reportedly settled in his new role and unlikely to be tempted away by the current offer from Manchester.
Other names linked with the permanent role include Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner and former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel. The immediate focus for the club, however, will be on appointing a caretaker, whose first major test could be the Manchester derby against City at Old Trafford next Saturday.
