The search for Manchester United's next permanent manager is underway, and a former player has thrown a name into the ring that is sure to infuriate fans of a Premier League rival.
Foster's High-Profile Pick
Following the departure of Ruben Amorim on Monday, January 5, 2026, ex-United and England goalkeeper Ben Foster has publicly backed Aston Villa boss Unai Emery for the role. Foster, who spent five years at Old Trafford, believes the Spaniard is the ideal figure to stabilise the club.
Amorim's 14-month reign ended after a 1-1 draw with Leeds United and amid reported clashes with the club's hierarchy over his tactical approach. The Portuguese coach's debut season saw United finish a record-low 15th, missing European football for the first time in over a decade.
Why Emery Fits the Bill
Speaking to talkSPORT, Foster heaped praise on the Villa manager, stating he is currently "the best manager in the world" in his view. He acknowledged that Aston Villa supporters would despise the suggestion, as Emery is "right at the top" of his game.
Foster argued that United now require a leader with significant authority to shield the players from intense pressure. "I get the impression they need somebody with a big character, a lot of authority and almost a bit of an aura," he said.
However, the former Watford keeper expressed doubts over whether Emery would even consider the move, given the well-documented internal challenges at Old Trafford. He warned that too many individuals within the club's structure are unwilling to relinquish power, making it difficult for any manager to have full autonomy.
The Scale of the Task at Old Trafford
The new manager will inherit a squad that has underperformed despite significant investment. Over £200 million was spent on signings last summer, yet the team currently sits sixth in the table after 20 games, with eight wins, seven draws, and five losses.
Amorim's tactical rigidity, particularly his insistence on a 3-4-3 formation, is said to have caused frustration among players and the board. Former player Darren Fletcher has taken interim charge while the club seeks a permanent solution.
While Emery has built a stable and successful project at Villa Park, leading them to consistent top-half finishes and European football, the lure of managing one of the world's most iconic clubs could be tempting. His previous experiences at Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain mean he is no stranger to high-pressure environments.
The coming weeks will reveal if United's hierarchy shares Foster's vision, or if they will look elsewhere to revive the club's fortunes.
