Better than Glasner: Man Utd enter talks to hire one of the ‘world’s best’
Manchester United have a crucial couple of weeks ahead of them, with the hierarchy now tasked with making the right appointment to lead the club forward.
Ruben Amorim was handed his marching orders on Monday morning, subsequently leaving the role after spending 14 months at the helm and winning just 40% of his matches.
A lack of positive results will no doubt have played into the minds of the board, but his outburst and breakdown in relationship with members behind the scenes appears to be the straw that broke the camel’s back.
Whilst Darren Fletcher has been appointed on an interim basis ahead of Wednesday’s Premier League clash with Burnley, a long-term solution is needed at Old Trafford.
Numerous managers have already been massively linked with the role in recent hours, with a couple of whom already standing out as some of the hierarchy’s favourites.
Man Utd now in talks to appoint new manager
After Amorim was handed his marching orders yesterday, Roberto De Zerbi was named as a surprise option to take the reins, but he could well prove to be an excellent addition.
The Italian, who currently manages Marseille in France, has previously been interviewed by INEOS for the role, but they decided to move forward with Amorim instead.
However, it remains unclear if he would be open to a Premier League return after previously managing Brighton and Hove Albion for a two-year period in 2022 and 2024.
He’s not the only option currently being considered by the Red Devils board, with former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca now emerging as another key target for the role.
According to TEAMtalk’s latest report, the Italian’s agent has already been in contact with United chiefs about taking over, after he was also sacked from his role within the last week.
It also states that the 45-year-old would be keen to fill the role at Old Trafford, but the club will wait to interview other candidates before moving forward with any appointment.
Why Maresca would be a better appointment than Glasner
As previously mentioned, United are also keeping an open mind with other potential candidates, which has resulted in Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner also being considered at present.
The Austrian has been on their radar for some time, but a deal could be on the cards, especially considering he has just six months left on his deal at Selhurst Park.
It’s been reported that he’s unwilling to negotiate a new deal with the Eagles and is expected to depart and move onto pastures new at the end of his current contract.
Such a situation could certainly make the 51-year-old a top target to replace Amorim, but as previously mentioned, no rush is happening to make the next appointment.
However, given the options currently available, the Red Devils should look to pursue a move for Maresca in the week ahead, especially given his previous work at Stamford Bridge.
When comparing his Premier League stats to those of Glasner, the Italian has dominated in numerous key areas, which highlight why he’d be such an impressive appointment.
The former Chelsea boss, who’s been dubbed “one of the best managers in the world” by Pep Guardiola, has won more games whilst managing 14 fewer games in England than Glasner.
Maresca vs Glasner in Premier League
Statistics
Maresca
Glasner
Games managed
57
71
Wins
28
27
Draws
15
23
Losses
14
21
Goals scored
96
102
Goals conceded
64
88
Points per game
1.74
1.46
Stats via Transfermarkt
Such a record showcases his incredible ability to galvanise results and push for success in the Premier League – something which United have struggled with in recent years.
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During his time at Chelsea, his sides managed to achieve a better goal per game record, whilst also posting a better defensive record – highlighting the impressive work at both ends.
The Italian’s points per game record also showcases his ability to get needed results alongside impressive appearances, which again is desperately needed at Old Trafford.
Given his interest in taking over from Amorim at United, a deal should be an easy one to complete, but the hierarchy need to act swiftly if he’s to make the move.
As previously mentioned, the board are trying to keep an open mind over who takes the reins, but one of the best options is currently available in Maresca.
However, it looks unlikely that a move in the immediate future will be completed, which could lead the Red Devils to miss out on a potential incredible manager.
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