Julian Nagelsmann remains a figure of significant interest, having previously caught the eye of Manchester City during Omar Berrada’s time in their hierarchy. At just 39, he boasts an extensive resume including spells managing Bayern Munich and the German national team. Known for his demand for relentless pressing, he acts as an innovator, though his tactical approach contrasts with the current United setup. His international tenure ended following a disappointing exit in the 2026 World Cup last-32 round against Paraguay, while his stint at Bayern—despite winning the Bundesliga in his only full season—concluded with a March sacking while the side sat second in the league. Having taken charge of Bayern Munich and Germany, he is highly thought of and would come with an impressive CV for a 39-year-old. A concept not currently used at United, as Bruno Fernandes will testify, nagelsmann is regarded as an innovator who is very demanding of his players and builds teams to press relentlessly. He has plenty of silverware to back up his credentials, very calm but with a ruthless edge when required. Which would suit the United squad, he is regarded as one of the game’s great pragmatists and is happy to play on the counterattack. Including telling a post-match press conference after losing to Burnley that maybe he was not the right man to manage Spurs, his fiery temper can also result in fascinating interactions with the media. His willingness to speak out when it may not necessarily be wise could put United off.
Unai Emery offers a pragmatic, trophy-laden alternative as a specialist in the Europa League. While his tactical preference leans toward a 4-2-3-1 formation, his reliance on a central striker poses a potential challenge given United’s current lack of a prolific target man. Whether Emery would consider a move depends on United’s ability to pay compensation and his assessment of the club’s potential compared to his current success at Aston Villa, who currently sit above United in the league standings and are performing strongly in the Champions League. The King of the Europa League is tactically astute and knows about working on a budget.
The return of a familiar face like Kieran McKenna is another point of discussion. Having worked in the United academy and as part of José Mourinho’s staff, he was integral to the side that secured a second-place finish under Ole Gunnar Solskjær. After resigning from Ipswich in June following his second promotion to the Premier League, McKenna is currently on a sabbatical. Given the high-pressure environment at Old Trafford, the club may prefer an external appointment over someone stepping back into such a precarious role after only a short break. An external candidate seems more appropriate, it is often a strength to have a link to a club but considering the struggles Solskjær and Carrick have endured. He departed to become a head coach at Ipswich and his work there meant he was linked with a return to United to replace Erik ten Hag. Would he want to end his sabbatical by jumping into a precarious situation after five or so months.
Antonio Conte represents a high-intensity option, though his preference for a three-at-the-back system could prove challenging given the squad’s current personnel. Having managed Chelsea and Tottenham, he possesses clear Premier League experience, including winning the 2017 title. His reputation as a strict disciplinarian is matched by a tendency for fiery public comments, which previously saw him openly question his suitability for the Tottenham role. Conversely, Eddie Howe offers a more stable profile, having successfully led Newcastle to the Champions League. His 4-3-3 preference and work ethic make him a pragmatic choice, though he would require a reliable central striker such as Benjamin Sesko to thrive. He would shake up the dressing room with his high standards, a fierce competitor and disciplinarian.
Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler has also garnered attention, with his side sitting third after netting 23 goals in their opening seven matches. At 33, his growing reputation makes him an attractive prospect; however, the allure of the United job must be weighed against the risks of inheriting a struggling team mid-season. Ultimately, the club faces a difficult decision in navigating these candidates, balancing the need for immediate tactical improvement with the financial realities and the immense pressure of the Old Trafford hot seat. Arguably this makes him the safest pair of hands.
