The 44-year-old manager who disappointed Ten Hag in the framework of Man Utd's career

The same manager who disappointed Erik ten Hag earlier this season is among the top targets to take over at Manchester United.

Man Utd manager rumours

The Red Devils escaped two shock defeats in the space of four days, first at Wembley in the FA Cup semi-final against Coventry City. New owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe was on hand to see United concede three goals to the Championship side, needing penalties to progress to the final against rivals Manchester City.

Then, at Old Trafford in the Premier League on Wednesday, United fell behind twice against bottom team Sheffield United, eventually winning 4-2. Ratcliffe called for patience from the Red Devils faithful, saying ahead of both games:

“One of the biggest problems we've had in football is getting these young guys to come in [backroom] team, really talented people, but they're all on farming leave, so it takes you six months to a year or 18 months before you know [see the benefits].

“They won't work for us fans who are impatient and I sympathize with that, but it's a journey. Whether you like it or not, they have to be a little more patient. It's not a light machine, you can't just change it like that, it takes a little time. But I'm sure we will.”

The new co-owner will stick with Ten Hag until the end of the season, however, a change in the Old Trafford dugout could happen before the 2024/25 campaign. Man Utd and Ratcliffe are reported to have made contact with Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel, while sporting director Dan Ashworth held a secret meeting with Graham Potter.

Borussia Dortmund boss Edin Terzic has also appeared on the radar, with Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi a name mentioned in recent months, with initial talks thought to be taking place.

Roberto De Zerbi who came out ahead of Man Utd's rival

Now, according to Football Insider, De Zerbi is the main contender for the Man Utd job alongside Tuchel. The two appear to be leading the race to join, should Ten Hag get his marching orders in the summer. That appears to be a growing trend, with the report claiming that De Zerbi's work at Brighton 'continues to attract admirers'.

Although De Zerbi's Brighton team has been stagnant this season, he has made a splash in England, leading the Seagulls into the Europa League. He also disappointed Ten Hag at Old Trafford earlier this season in his side's 3-1 win in September with another goal and a goal, which left the Red Devils in 13th place.

If he does arrive in Manchester, the 44-year-old will be coming up against a respected figure in City boss Pep Guardiola, who said of De Zerbi last year: “No team plays the way he plays – it's different. I felt when he arrived the impact he would have on the Premier League would be great – I didn't expect him to do it in such a short time.

“He creates 20 or 25 chances per game, much better than most opponents. He controls the ball in a way that has not been there for a long time.”