Man Utd 'sound out' new managerial target to replace Erik ten Hag

  • Man Utd see De Zerbi as a good replacement for Ten Hag
  • Brighton manager's success has impressed Sir Jim Ratcliffe
  • United yet to make a decision on Dutchman's future
Man Utd may make a move for De Zerbi
Man Utd may make a move for De Zerbi / Clive Rose/GettyImages
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Manchester United have identified Roberto De Zerbi as a potential replacement for Erik ten Hag, according to a new report.

De Zerbi joined Brighton & Hove Albion in September 2022 and led the club to their highest ever top-flight finish in 2022/23. He also helped them to the last 16 of the Europa League the following campaign - their first ever venture into Europe - before leaving at the end of this season.

The Guardian have revealed that United have been in contact with De Zerbi, with the possibility that Erik ten Hag is sacked increasing despite winning the FA Cup at the weekend.


Roberto De Zerbi, Erik ten Hag
Ten Hag's Man Utd beat De Zerbi's Brighton on the final day of the season / Michael Steele/GettyImages

De Zerbi's surprise Brighton departure was by mutual consent at the end of the season, saying that he wanted to 'take a break before deciding on future plans'.

He currently only has one managerial trophy to his name - the Ukrainian Super Cup which he achieved with Shakhtar Donetsk, who he only led through 30 matches.

Meanwhile, Ten Hag was able to secure his second piece of silverware at United on Saturday, after beating rivals Manchester City to lift the FA Cup. De Zerbi is yet to win any trophies in England, while the Dutchman remained proud of his capabilities in this area after Saturday's victory.

Speaking after the win, Ten Hag said: "Two trophies in two years is not bad. I am not satisfied. If they don't want me any more I will go [somewhere else] to win trophies because that is what I do in my whole career."

Ten Hag's position is expected to be evaluated this week during the club's season review, and only then will a decision be made on his future.


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