Manchester United are bracing themselves for a monumental summer.
Not only must they rebuild a fragile midfield, but they also need to appoint a visionary head coach capable of restoring the glory days at the iconic Old Trafford.
Michael Carrick currently leads the race for the permanent role, having impressed during his interim spell in charge.
However, Julian Nagelsmann continues to be linked with the vacant role at Old Trafford.
The Athletic have now revealed that United’s Director of Recruitment Christopher Vivell is friends with Nagelsmann and would doubtless speak highly of his qualities.
Vivell is an important voice within the Man United leadership.
He played an important role in signing Benjamin Sesko and Senne Lammens last summer, despite former manager Ruben Amorim preferring Ollie Watkins and Emiliano Martinez.
Both Sesko and Lammens have delivered outstanding debut campaigns, strengthening Vivell’s reputation and influence.
Nagelsmann is currently focused on achieving success with Germany at the upcoming World Cup.
The 38-year-old tactician first made waves with impressive spells at Hoffenheim and RB Leipzig.
He later guided Bayern Munich to a Bundesliga title in his debut season before being abruptly dismissed in 2023.
INEOS now face a defining decision and must conduct thorough due diligence before appointing their next manager.
They previously placed their faith in Erik ten Hag after FA Cup success, only to part ways with him just months later.
The subsequent appointment of Amorim mid-season, despite his rigid preference for a back-three system unfamiliar to United, has also come under scrutiny.
With little margin for error left, INEOS cannot afford another misstep.
Ultimately, the coming weeks will reveal whether Carrick cements his position or Nagelsmann is brought in to lead a new era at Old Trafford.