Manchester United have finally pulled the trigger on Erik Ten Hag‘s troubled spell at Old Trafford.
It could be seen as harsh – their 2-1 defeat against West Ham saw them concede a ridiculous last-gasp penalty, and if Dalot didn’t miss an open goal, they could have been home and hosed. The main issue has been the fact they’ve sunk into the pool of midtable also-rans, and that’s not good enough for one of the world’s biggest clubs.
It could be time for them to dip into the pool of talent in the EFL – managers who understand England, to a degree, and have already served time here. Are there any out there that could do a better job than Ten Hag?
Here are three that certainly couldn’t do a worse job, but then Steve Evans probably wouldn’t do a worse job than the beleaguered Dutchman!
Michael Carrick (Middlesbrough)
Michael Carrick’s tenure at Middlesbrough has demonstrated his calm, strategic approach, which has earned respect in the Championship. Carrick’s deep understanding of United’s culture, stemming from his successful career there, is a significant asset. His ability to develop young players and establish a structured, attacking style at Boro aligns well with United’s footballing philosophy. With Carrick’s experience working under elite managers and his progressive tactical approach, he could be a compelling fit for United’s long-term ambitions.
Mark Robins (Coventry City)
Mark Robins has shown impressive resilience with Coventry City, guiding them from League Two to a Championship playoff final. Known for his adaptability and tactical intelligence, Robins has managed to get the best from his squad, even with limited resources, and his focus on teamwork and discipline resonates with United’s values. Additionally, as a former United player, Robins has a personal connection to the club, giving him insight into the standards and identity expected at Old Trafford.
Regis Le Bris (Sunderland)
Le Bris has been making waves at Sunderland, known for implementing a dynamic and progressive playing style. His ability to cultivate young talent and adapt his tactics to opponents has been instrumental in Sunderland’s recent success in the Championship. Le Bris’s philosophy of proactive, possession-based football would suit United’s ambitions to play attacking, attractive football. His tactical acumen and emphasis on youth development align well with United’s ethos, making him a promising candidate for a future managerial role at the club. He might cost a few quid, but no more than it costs to sack a manager every season.
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