Current Manchester United managerial odds reflect uncertainty following Erik ten Hag's dismissal in October 2024. Interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy remains in charge, but permanent successor discussions are ongoing within the club hierarchy.
Favourite Candidates & Latest Odds
Gareth Southgate: Remains the clear frontrunner. His availability post-EURO 2026 with England is a key consideration for United's ownership, though internal opinion on his suitability varies.
Xavi Hernández: Consistently linked as a strong alternative. The former Barcelona manager is viewed as a credible candidate with high-level experience.
Roberto De Zerbi: An emerging name in the frame, acknowledged as a potential candidate given his modern tactical approach.
Key Factors Influencing the Appointment
- International Commitments: Southgate's position with England necessitates complex negotiation.
- Internal Alignment: Consistent reporting suggests a lack of full consensus at board level on the ideal profile.
- Interim Status: Van Nistelrooy's tenure is definitively viewed as temporary, with no indication he is under consideration for the permanent role.
Recent Context
Ten Hag’s subsequent tenure at Bayer Leverkusen ended abruptly on September 1st, 2025, after just 62 days and a poor start to the Bundesliga season. His departure formed part of an unusual sequence, joining former United managers Ole Gunnar Solskjær and José Mourinho who were also dismissed within the preceding days (late August 2025). Manchester United's search focuses solely on identifying a long-term successor.
Timeline
The appointment process is expected to accelerate, potentially targeting the November 2025 international break for an announcement, depending largely on Southgate's situation resolution.
