If Zinedine Zidane takes over at Manchester United, he reportedly has one signing in mind—the former Real Madrid manager is “open” to replacing Erik ten Hag.
With just eight points from a possible 21 in their first seven games this season, Ten Hag’s Red Devils have had their worst start to a Premier League season ever.
Man Utd is now languishing in 14th place in the Premier League, having scored just five goals so far this season. Ten Hag is facing pressure from the board, the media, and the fans to improve the team’s performance.
Following the international break, Ten Hag is anticipated to be in charge of the Red Devils’ first game back against Brentford. There are rumors that the Manchester United board may attempt to retain him in that role until closer to January.
Ten Hag stated, “We always talk, every week,” before to the Red Devils executive committee’s scheduled monthly meeting last Tuesday. We communicate every day, so yes, I anticipate speaking with them, I would say.
Ten Hag stated, “I think you said it very well-it is external noise,” in response to a question about them being in the bottom half of the table following a 0-0 tie with Aston Villa.
“We are frustrated on the inside and know that we have to improve, especially in terms of scoring more, as that is where we are now lacking after this run of games.
We are performing pretty well, in my opinion, in every other area. We have four spotless games, which speaks volumes about our organization and defense. We are also getting much better at defending defensive transitions, which is another area where we are really growing.
“We play well in the build-up; we are composed and serene. We’re establishing the opportunities outside of today.
“We should have created more today, in my opinion, but we need to work on being more ruthless, clinical, and deadly in that opponent’s box.”
If Ten Hag is fired, a number of managers are reportedly in the running to take his place, including Max Allegri, Eddie Howe, Thomas Frank, Gareth Southgate, and Thomas Tuchel.
Another manager that the Red Devils are supposedly considering is Zidane, the former manager of Real Madrid, who reportedly “would be open to the possibility of landing at Old Trafford,” according to publications in Spain.
In addition, Zidane “already has a priority target in mind” for the January transfer window; the Frenchman is hoping to make his first signing of Barcelona defender Jules Kounde.
The France international “would be fundamental to strengthen a defence that has shown serious weaknesses in recent months” and has “aroused Zidane’s interest.”
The report includes:
There is no denying Zidane’s admiration for his countryman and his belief that his addition might elevate the English team to a new level.
But FC Barcelona is unwilling to part with one of their most vital players. Koundé appears to be totally dedicated to the Barça project, and the Catalan team believes he cannot be transferred.
