Manchester United were ready to sack Erik ten Hag in 2024, with Thomas Tuchel and Roberto de Zerbi identified as his replacements, only to reverse their decision after winning the FA Cup.
Ten Hag kept his job despite guiding the club to an eighth-place Premier League finish, then their lowest ever. Victory over Manchester City in the FA Cup final at Wembley proved decisive in him staying.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos, newly in charge, had searched for a new manager and the decision to dismiss Ten Hag was almost finalised before they changed course.
Two candidates identified
According to The Athletic, United had settled on Tuchel and De Zerbi as their two main candidates, with both managers out of work at the time.
Tuchel had left Bayern Munich but carried strong pedigree from spells at PSG and Chelsea, where he won the Champions League. United's decision not to appoint him benefited England, as the German now manages the Three Lions.
De Zerbi had seen his reputation grow at Brighton before ending his time there. Long tipped for a step up, he moved to Marseille after United stuck with Ten Hag and is now in charge of Tottenham.
Fallout of the U-turn
Earlier this season, De Zerbi brought his Tottenham side to Old Trafford. Spurs dominated and escaped with a point thanks to a late header, but were wasteful in front of goal.
United's decision to keep Ten Hag proved short-lived, as he was sacked after nine Premier League games the following season. The episode highlighted Ineos's decision-making, which has continued to hold the club back.
Ten Hag signed Joshua Zirkzee and Manuel Ugarte, both now deemed surplus to requirements. After his dismissal, Ruben Amorim was hired but lasted just 14 months before being removed. Carrick's interim spell led to a permanent appointment, but he too is now facing the axe.
