Manchester United have reportedly identified Aston Villa boss Unai Emery as a potential replacement for Ruben Amorim.
The Red Devils head coach has made a poor start to the 2025-26 season after he oversaw the club's worst-ever Premier League finish last term.
United have taken just four points from their first three Premier League matches, while they also suffered a surprise penalty-shootout defeat in their EFL Cup first-round clash against Grimsby Town.
As a result, there is growing scrutiny surrounding Amorim's position in the Man United hotseat, although a dramatic win over Burnley at least alleviated some of the pressure before the international break.
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery on August 16, 2025
Man United identify Emery as Amorim successor
According to Football Insider, Man United have no immediate plans to sack Amorim, but they have still earmarked a fellow Premier League manager as a top target should they decide to change their head coach.
The report claims that Man United are showing increasing interest in Emery after being impressed with his work at Aston Villa.
Emery took over the reins at Villa Park in October 2022 following the sacking of Steven Gerrard, who left the club just outside the drop zone.
The 53-year-old led Villa away from danger and up to seventh place, before he steered the club to fourth position and Champions League qualification in the following season.
Villa were unable to secure Champions League football for a second successive season, but last term's sixth-placed finish at least sealed Europa League qualification for Emery's side.
While he has overseen a successful period, Emery could be frustrated by the club's underwhelming transfer window, which was hampered by Profit and Sustainability rules.
With that in mind, Man United could sense that there is an opportunity to prise Emery away from Villa Park if they decide to part ways with Amorim in the coming months.
Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim on August 30, 2025
What next for Man United and Amorim?
Amorim will be under pressure to build upon the 3-2 victory over Burnley when the Premier League resumes following the international break.
However, that will be easier said than done, with Man United set to return to action with two tricky Premier League fixtures, including Sunday's highly-anticipated derby clash against rivals Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
Man United will then turn their focus to another challenging contest against Club World Cup winners Chelsea at Old Trafford.
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