Manchester United has reportedly initiated initial talks with Julen Lopetegui and Antonio Conte as potential candidates in case they opt to replace Erik ten Hag by the season’s end.
While there isn’t an immediate inclination to part ways with Ten Hag, concerns about the team’s performance have led to speculation that a change may occur unless there’s a significant improvement in the second half of the campaign.
Insiders have disclosed to CaughtOffside that Lopetegui was approached but declined a managerial position at Al Ittihad, influenced by a potential opening at Manchester United. Lopetegui, expressing a keen interest in managing in England again, sees securing a Premier League position as a priority.
On the other hand, Conte’s situation with United is more complex, with his preference being to stay in Italy for proximity to his family. While not entirely dismissing the prospect of managing in the Premier League again, there’s currently no agreement in place with AC Milan, despite some reports.
As Manchester United assesses managerial options for potential future scenarios, the decisions regarding Ten Hag’s tenure will likely depend on the team’s performance trajectory in the latter part of the campaign, emphasizing the club’s proactive approach for stability and success in the managerial role.
