Manchester United have begun their search for a new head coach after parting ways with Ruben Amorim, who was dismissed following a challenging 14-month spell in charge at Old Trafford. The club's hierarchy is now assessing a shortlist of potential successors, with several high-profile names already linked to the prestigious role.
The Front-Runner: Oliver Glasner
Oliver Glasner, currently in charge at Crystal Palace, is understood to be the leading candidate for the Manchester United board. The Austrian's contract with the Eagles is set to expire at the end of the current season, making a move potentially straightforward. Glasner has significantly enhanced his reputation in English football, having guided Palace to an FA Cup and Community Shield double in 2025.
His pedigree includes a historic UEFA Europa League triumph with Eintracht Frankfurt in the 2021/22 campaign. He also claimed a Premier League Manager of the Month award in September 2025. With previous experience at Wolfsburg, LASK, and SV Ried, Glasner boasts a 44% win rate during his tenure at Selhurst Park.
The Tactical Moderniser: Enzo Maresca
Another serious contender is Enzo Maresca, who is available after being sacked by Chelsea in January. Despite his departure from Stamford Bridge, the Italian is highly regarded for implementing a modern, progressive tactical philosophy during his time with the Blues.
This approach is seen as potentially crucial for a United side seeking a clear footballing identity. Maresca, who has also managed Leicester City and Parma, achieved a 59% win rate at Chelsea and is already accustomed to the intense scrutiny that comes with managing a major Premier League club.
The Big-Name Free Agent: Xavi Hernandez
Former Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez is a notable free agent being considered. The Spaniard has been linked with the United job in the past and is viewed as a coach capable of handling the immense pressure and managing star players at a global institution.
His managerial career has been spent exclusively at Al Sadd and Barcelona, leading some to question if the United job might be a step too far at this stage. However, his impressive 62% win rate in LaLiga with Barca makes a compelling case for his credentials.
The Homecoming Candidates: McKenna and Solskjaer
The list also features two figures with strong connections to Manchester United. Kieran McKenna, the former United first-team coach under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick, has performed miracles at Ipswich Town, leading them from League One to the Premier League.
His deep familiarity with the club's Carrington training complex makes him an appealing 'homegrown' option. However, Ipswich remains his only managerial post, where he holds a 46% win rate.
In a dramatic twist, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has emerged as a bookmakers' favourite in the last 24 hours, prompting talk of a romantic return. Solskjaer, sacked by Besiktas in August 2025, remains one of the most successful post-Sir Alex Ferguson managers at United in terms of win percentage.
He recorded a 54% win rate during his spell at Old Trafford and a 51% rate at his most recent job in Turkey. While he could be seen as a potential stopgap, his affinity with the club makes him a popular, if surprising, candidate.
The decision now rests with the United board as they aim to appoint a leader who can restore stability and success to one of the world's most iconic football clubs.
