Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that Manchester United has reopened discussions with a top-tier manager he had previously recommended to the club, following growing pressure on Erik ten Hag's position. Ferguson had initially suggested this manager to the Glazers, but the offer was declined at the time. However, the club's new ownership is now making another attempt to secure his services with a more attractive offer.
Ten Hag's future at Old Trafford has come under scrutiny after a series of disappointing results, including a 3-0 loss to Tottenham and a 3-3 draw against Porto in the Europa League, despite a late equalizer from Harry Maguire. According to *The Athletic*, United is considering Ten Hag's future from a "long-term perspective," indicating that even a loss to Aston Villa this weekend may not result in his immediate departure. However, discussions about a possible managerial change have resurfaced, with minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS already engaging with several candidates during the summer.
One high-profile manager United previously approached was Thomas Tuchel, who turned down the offer due to concerns over the club’s power structure. Reports now suggest that the club may renew talks with the former Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss if Ten Hag is dismissed.
While Ratcliffe is reportedly interested in managers like Graham Potter and Gareth Southgate, any decision on Ten Hag's replacement would involve the wider leadership team at United. Additionally, Italian journalist Tancredi Palmeri has reported that United made an offer to Inter Milan’s Simone Inzaghi, who ultimately declined to leave his current club.
Brentford’s Thomas Frank has also been linked with the job, having reportedly held talks with United before their FA Cup win against Manchester City last season. Despite these names circulating, assistant coach and former United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy remains the bookmakers' favorite for the role, after joining the club following a successful tenure with PSV Eindhoven.