The pressure on Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is undeniable, and after a difficult start to the season, whispers of his potential departure have become increasingly loud. The inconsistency that plagued the team last season seems to have carried over, with United currently sitting 14th in the Premier League after a recent 3-1 defeat to Brentford.
While Sky Sports reports that United is not actively planning to replace Amorim at this stage, the news that a Champions League-winning coach is reportedly positioning himself for a potential move to Old Trafford is bound to fuel speculation further.
Xavi: The name on everyone's lips?
According to reports from Caught Offside, former Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez has made it clear he is keen on a Premier League role and has already turned down offers from Saudi Arabian clubs, indicating he is "holding out for something specific".
Given the timing and United's current struggles, it's widely believed that an opening at Old Trafford is the scenario being "monitored with interest" by the Champions League winner.
While Xavi's time at Barcelona ended with some mixed results, his reputation as a player and his education under managerial legends like Pep Guardiola and Luis Enrique makes him an attractive candidate for clubs seeking a high-status appointment.
His tactical philosophy, focused on possession and proactive football, is also thought to align with the "cultural direction"
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is attempting to implement at the club.
The Amorim dilemma: Patience vs. expectation
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The situation presents a classic dilemma for Manchester United. On one hand, there's a desire for stability and a reluctance to make another managerial change, especially after years of upheaval. Amorim, despite the challenges, is said to still have the backing of the United board.
Goal.com also reports that Amorim feels the players don't want him to be sacked after their 2-0 win over Sunderland eased some of the immediate pressure.
However, the weight of supporter expectation at a club like United is immense. Fans have been craving a return to the glory days and are growing impatient with the inconsistency. The potential availability of a manager like Xavi, known for his winning pedigree and a style of play that excites fans, could easily shift the atmosphere around Old Trafford.
Other names in the frame While Xavi is attracting significant attention, he is not the only potential successor being linked with the Manchester United job.
Other managers who are reportedly being considered include:
Oliver Glasner: The Crystal Palace manager, who guided them to an FA Cup victory and an unbeaten start to the current season, is also a top candidate. However, there is some debate about his suitability for a club of United's stature.
Andoni Iraola: The Bournemouth head coach, who has impressed with his side's performance in the league, is another name in the mix.
Gareth Southgate: The former England boss is thought to be favored by some within the INEOS hierarchy, although a move is reportedly considered unlikely.
A critical period for Amorim
Ruben Amorim finds himself in a precarious position. While he still has the support of the board, results will ultimately dictate his future.
The upcoming matches, including the recent 2-0 win against Sunderland, are crucial in demonstrating that he can turn the tide and deliver the consistent performances
that Manchester United demands. The presence of a Champions League winner like Xavi waiting in the wings only adds to the pressure and underscores the importance of the period ahead for Amorim and Manchester United