INEOS could plot an ambitious move for Zinedine Zidane, as Manchester United are eyeing the Frenchman as a successor to Erik ten Hag.
According to Fichajes, Zinedine is in the frame to replace Erik ten Hag should Manchester United decide to sack the Dutchman soon. The former Ajax manager has come under massive pressure following a terrible start to the season, and the 52-year-old former Real Madrid manager could re-emerge as a concrete option.
Erik ten Hag’s situation at Manchester United
Erik ten Hag seems to be hanging on to his job at Manchester United despite a raft of criticism regarding the club’s terrible start to the new season. Following a narrow win over Wolves on opening day, the Red Devils suffered back-to-back defeats at the hands of Brighton and then, in humiliating fashion, against Liverpool at Old Trafford.
The last result against the Merseysiders has brought the spotlight back on the Dutch manager. So far, Manchester United have decided to back Ten Hag and have chosen not to sack him in the aftermath of the Liverpool defeat. However, unlike last season, the Dutchman may not have a long enough leash this time out as he’s walking the tightrope in the battle to retain his role.
Some reports have suggested that Ten Hag may have four games to save his Manchester United career. Such stories are highly emotional, as INEOS might take stern action if the club’s results continue to fade after the international break.
Ten Hag is a ‘dead man walking’ and will have to find a quick turnaround in results to save his job. Manchester United are not overly committed despite their stance on the Dutchman, as a few candidates, including former Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel, are already on their minds.
Zinedine Zidane back in the mix
Before Ten Hag took over, Zinedine Zidane was one of their top targets, and he was linked again last season when things weren’t going well for the Dutchman. The 52-year-old former Real Madrid manager is again in the mix, as INEOS are plotting an ambitious move for him should they part ways with their current manager.
The three-time Champions League-winning boss will represent a significant coup, as they believe Zidane will set the standards that Manchester United require on the pitch. With links to the French great, it will increase the pressure on Ten hag going forward, as the next few games will determine the direction INEOS will take regarding the Dutchman.