Manchester United is once again searching for a new manager after parting ways with Ruben Amorim.
Despite patience and backing from the board, the Portuguese coach failed to deliver results in his first year, and recent press conference appearances hinted at deeper unrest behind the scenes. Darren Fletcher has been appointed interim manager while the hunt for a permanent successor begins.
According to Oddschecker, five names currently top the bookmakers’ list to take the reins at Old Trafford.
Oliver Glasner (5/2)
The clear favourite. Glasner has built a reputation as one of the Premier League’s most adaptable coaches, guiding Crystal Palace to their first-ever trophy. Though he favours a 3-5-2 system—the same formation Amorim struggled to impose—Glasner insists he tailors tactics to his players. His flexibility and track record make him a strong candidate as he nears the end of his Palace contract.
Enzo Maresca (6/1)
A surprise contender. The Italian was recently named Premier League Manager of the Month after Chelsea’s impressive run, including victories over Arsenal and Barcelona. However, a dip in form and a breakdown with the Chelsea board left him jobless. Open to another Premier League role, Maresca has even been linked with Manchester City as Pep Guardiola’s eventual successor. United may look to move quickly.
Laurent Blanc (8/1)
The wildcard. Blanc, a former United player, boasts a coaching pedigree with PSG, Bordeaux, and most recently Al-Ittihad, where he won the Saudi double. Despite his résumé, his candidacy appears far-fetched, with little to suggest he fits United’s current project.
Xavi Hernandez (10/1)
The former Barcelona boss has been monitoring the Premier League since leaving Camp Nou in 2024. Known for pragmatism rather than pure tiki-taka, Xavi guided Barcelona to the 2022–23 La Liga title. He has turned down offers elsewhere, insisting the right project matters more than money. United passed on him last year in favour of Amorim, but circumstances may now prompt a rethink.
Gareth Southgate (12/1)
The perennial link. Ever since Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s arrival, Southgate’s name has hovered around Old Trafford. Former sporting director Dan Ashworth reportedly pushed for his appointment after Erik ten Hag’s dismissal, though the board opted against it. With Southgate’s England tenure long scrutinised, his candidacy remains divisive—but not impossible.As United weighs its options, the shortlist reflects a mix of proven winners, tactical innovators, and familiar names. The next appointment will be pivotal in restoring stability and ambition at Old Trafford.