In a stunning development that could reshape Manchester United's future, football icon Zinedine Zidane has emerged as a genuine candidate to take the managerial reins at Old Trafford. The three-time Champions League winning manager is being seriously considered as part of INEOS' comprehensive review of the club's leadership structure.
INEOS Casts Wide Net in Managerial Hunt
The new minority owners are leaving no stone unturned in their evaluation of Erik ten Hag's position, with Sporting Lisbon's highly-rated manager Ruben Amorim also featuring prominently on their shortlist. The Portuguese tactician has impressed with his work at Sporting, leading them to their first league title in 19 years during the 2020-21 season.
Current boss Ten Hag finds himself in precarious waters following United's disappointing Champions League exit and inconsistent Premier League form. While the Dutchman retains some support within the club hierarchy, the arrival of INEOS has triggered a fundamental reassessment of all football operations.
Zidane's Premier League Ambition
What makes Zidane's potential appointment particularly intriguing is his previous reluctance to manage in England. The French maestro has consistently turned down approaches from Premier League clubs in the past, preferring opportunities in Spain, Italy, or with the French national team.
However, sources suggest the magnitude of the Manchester United project, combined with INEOS' vision for the club, might be enough to convince the 51-year-old to finally make his Premier League bow. Zidane has been out of management since leaving Real Madrid in 2021 but remains one of the most coveted coaches in world football.
Amorim Presents Compelling Alternative
Should the Zidane pursuit falter, Ruben Amorim represents an exciting alternative. The 39-year-old has built a formidable reputation for developing young talent and implementing an attractive, attacking style of football that would appeal to United's traditional values.
Amorim's contract with Sporting includes a substantial release clause, but financial constraints are unlikely to deter INEOS if they identify their preferred candidate. The Portuguese manager's youth-focused approach aligns perfectly with the new ownership's stated philosophy of building for sustainable long-term success.
As the season approaches its climax, all eyes remain on Old Trafford, where one of world football's most prestigious jobs could soon become available, potentially triggering a major managerial reshuffle across European football.
