2 A new major contender has emerged in the heated race to clinch Erik ten Hag's job as manager at Manchester United.
With criticism against Ten Hag mounting following what has been a heavily disappointing second season as United boss, an array of potential candidates to replace him as manager have been put forward by the media.
Former Brighton and Chelsea manager Graham Potter was one of the early names linked with the club, along with England manager Gareth Southgate.
As explained by The Peoples Person, however, it appears that Southgate remains focused on England's performance at Euro 2024.
Another former Chelsea boss who has been linked with Ten Hag's job is current Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel. Set to depart the German club following a disappointing season, Tuchel let slip that he would love to come back and work in the Premier League, thereby adding fuel to the fire.
David Ornstein suggested that current Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino could be a strong candidate, claiming that his playing style could be suited to INEOS, hence why he previously met with them about the then-vacant managerial post at OGC Nice.
Just yesterday, it was reported that Hansi Flick may be interested in managing United despite being considered as Tuchel's replacement at Bayern.
Even today, the rumour mill continues to spin.
The Telegraph reported this morning that Brentford manager Thomas Frank is a "strong contender" to become the next United manager should Ten Hag be sacked.
According to the report, INEOS admire Frank for his work at Brentford over the past six years. Under Frank's leadership, Brentford have become one of the most successful data-driven clubs, punching well above their weight by finishing ninth in the Premier League last season.
This is a major accomplishment for the club considering that it was only their second season in the top flight after earning promotion in 2021 - yet another example of Frank's managerial success.
The newspaper alleged that United are looking for a head coach "to help rebuild the club rather than a short-term fix from a proven trophy winner".
This only strengthens the argument in favour of appointing Frank given how his current club have risen under his guidance.
There's also the fact that Frank has an existing relationship with INEOS Director of Sport Sir Dave Brailsford, which could work in his favour.
On May 25, Ten Hag will have perhaps his final opportunity to save his job as United take on bitter rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final. United will surely be desperate to win this clash as a slice of redemption following a majorly disappointing campaign.
