Manchester United explored moves for Thomas Tuchel and Roberto De Zerbi several months before appointing Ruben Amorim as head coach, according to reports. The club considered their options after concerning results under Erik ten Hag during the 2023/24 season.
Thomas Tuchel met with United chiefs in Monaco but did not reach an agreement, as the German was reportedly not prepared to return to football so soon after leaving Bayern Munich. Roberto De Zerbi's talks were halted after he rejected an initial offer from United, with no improved proposal forthcoming.
Ten Hag was ultimately backed in the transfer market with around £200 million, but he lasted only a few months into the 2024/25 season, leaving United 14th in the Premier League after nine games. Caretaker boss Ruud van Nistelrooy improved results, but Amorim could not inspire a full recovery, leading to a 15th-place finish despite reaching the Europa League final.
Amorim's first full season started slowly, but three consecutive wins have lifted United to sixth place ahead of Saturday's match against Nottingham Forest. Reflecting on his first year, Amorim said: "When I’m under pressure, I’m stronger on my ideas and I keep with my ideas."
