A Spanish footballer expert has issued an update about one of the favourites to become Manchester United manager.
Erik ten Hag was relieved of his duties as United boss on Monday morning. The club confirmed the news in a statement which read: “Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men’s first-team manager.
“Erik was appointed in April 2022 and led the club to two domestic trophies, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024.
“We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.
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“Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team as interim head coach, supported by the current coaching team, whilst a permanent head coach is recruited.”
Several potential candidates have already been linked with the move, including Julian Nagelsmann, Ruben Amorim and Xabi Alonso, but there is another Spaniard whose situation is particularly interesting.
Former Barcelona manager Xavi has been out of a job since leaving his post as Barca boss following the 2023-24 season in which the club missed out on silverware.
The ex-midfielder had previously managed Qatari side Al Sadd before making the switch to Catalonia in 2021.
Spanish football expert Guillem Balague has issued a stunning update on the 44-year-old's future.
“The idea of Xavi has not changed,” he wrote on X.
“A sabbatical year and start a new project (why not in the Premier League) in the summer.”
But he insisted “[Xavi] he has not heard from Manchester United”.
Given his age (44) Xavi is a coach with huge potential having already led Barcelona to the 2022-23 La Liga title. The Spaniard is currently second favourite to take the role on a full-time basis according to Oddschecker. The rumours linking the 2010 World Cup winner with the United role ramped up when his son was pictured wearing a United home kit - via his wife's Instagram story on Sunday - while filling out a sticker book.
Whoever, takes on the United job will be in for a tough challenge as the club currently sit 14th in the Premier League.
Topics: Manchester United, Erik Ten Hag, Xavi, Premier League, Barcelona
Luke Davies