Sources: Maresca Among Two Frontrunners to be Man United Manager, Board's New Plan Revealed

Manchester United have sacked manager Ruben Amorim on Monday morning after a disappointing tenure, sparking a frantic search for his replacement. The Portuguese coach, appointed 14 months ago, led United to last season's Europa League final but lost to Tottenham Hotspur, missing Champions League qualification. This season, United sit sixth in the Premier League following draws against Wolves and Leeds, finishing 15th last term.[2]

Club legend Darren Fletcher will take interim charge for Wednesday's trip to Burnley as the board unveils a new plan: identifying two frontrunners for the permanent role while avoiding short-term fixes. Sources reveal Enzo Maresca, recently sacked by Chelsea on New Year's Day after 18 months and a fallout with the hierarchy, is among the top candidates at odds of 4/6. The Italian, with Manchester City connections appealing to United's alumni-influenced staff, is eyed despite pundit Jamie O'Hara ruling out an interim stint, calling it "cuckoo land" due to Maresca's elevated status post-Chelsea.[1][2]

The second frontrunner is Oliver Glasner, praised for his tactical nous, alongside other contenders like Xavi Hernandez, Andoni Iraola, and Roberto De Zerbi. Iraola's progressive style at Bournemouth impresses, while De Zerbi's volatility at Marseille raises doubts. The board's strategy emphasizes long-term stability over interim chaos, learning from Amorim's board clashes—mirroring Maresca's Chelsea exit. United aims for a summer permanent appointment, with Maresca potentially bridging if convinced, though his City links fuel speculation of a rival move.[2][3]

Fans buzz with excitement, but O'Hara warns Maresca won't settle for temporary duties, eyeing a full four-year contract instead. This reshuffle signals United's new leadership prioritizing system integration and Premier League pedigree amid a turbulent transition.[1][3]