Bruno Fernandes could leave Manchester United in the summerplaceholder image
Bruno Fernandes could leave Manchester United in the summer | Getty Images
Man United are in safe hands under Michael Carrick, but is one long-term contender for the job set to become available?
Man United might not be looking past Michael Carrick with the way things are going as the hunt for a permanent manager continues.
The former Old Trafford favourite has a chance of keeping the job, however, his lack of experience is something that he will have to battle against and win over the doubters about. It is one thing to play for United, it is an entirely different proposition to manage them.
That some of Europe’s best have tried and failed to restore the Red Devils to their former glory tells a story in itself. Names continue to be linked with one, who has already addressed speculation, potentially becoming available before the season ends.
Manager blows Man United job audition
The new Champions League format isn’t as conducive to drama as it once was, but this didn’t stop Benfica, under the guidance of Jose Mourinho, from creating a memorable moment. Sitting in 25th place, on goals scored, with their game against Real Madrid in the 98th minute, goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin produced something special with a stunning header that secured knock-out football for the Portuguese giants.
All at Marseille’s expense, who had just lost 3-0 to Club Bruges. A four goal, goal difference swing and the Ligue 1 outfit were out.
If Mourinho was ecstatic, one manager who wasn’t happy was Roberto Di Zerbi who has, reportedly, tendered his resignation after failing to qualify. According to RMC Sport it is claimed the ex-Brighton boss's future at Marseille is in doubt after crashing out of the Champions League in spectacular fashion.
The Italian, via various media reports has not been seen at the Marseille training ground to prepare for Saturday's Ligue 1 game at Paris FC, with talks under way to come to an agreement over a parting of ways.
What has Di Zerbi said about Man United links?
De Zerbi has been linked with the United job having proven with Brighton that he can deliver exciting and effective football in the Premier League. The Italian is a pragmatist, but he is also capable of taking the handbrake off, however, the defeat to Bruges leaves a stain on his CV.
De Zerbi has already been asked recently about the United position, claiming that Marseille was, and always has been his priority.
“My focus is totally on Marseille. I wanted to come here,” De Zerbi said.
“The day before a very important, very crucial game, I have no space in my head to think about other things. I feel very well in this city with these players, with this club. As for the future, we have got to speak in the next month, in the next year, I don't know.”
What won’t go in Di Zerbi’s favour are claims that he showed the Marseille squad a copy of the contract that United were said to have reportedly offered him.
If Di Zerbi is willing to jump ship at the first sign of trauma, maybe Old Trafford isn’t the place for him to be.
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