Manchester United is reportedly considering Enzo Maresca, along with seven other candidates, for their next manager following the recent dismissal of Ruben Amorim. Amorim's tenure, which began in November 2024, lasted only 63 games. The club announced Amorim's departure, stating the decision was made to provide the team with the "best opportunity of the highest possible Premier League finish".
The list of potential replacements includes Oliver Glasner, currently managing Crystal Palace. Glasner is considered an early favorite, having led Crystal Palace from relegation struggles to winning their first major trophy.
Enzo Maresca, the former Chelsea manager, is also a strong contender. Maresca's departure from Chelsea on New Year's Day was unexpected. Before coaching Chelsea, Maresca managed Leicester City, leading them to the EFL Championship and earning promotion to the Premier League. Jason Wilcox, Manchester United's sporting director, is thought to have a positive relationship with Maresca, potentially facilitating his arrival at Old Trafford. Wilcox also had a key role in the decision to part ways with Amorim.
Other potential candidates have not been named.
Darren Fletcher, a former Manchester United player, will take charge of the team on an interim basis, starting with the game against Burnley. Fletcher's sons, Jack and Tyler, have been included in the first-team squads this season. While Fletcher could be considered for the permanent role, it seems unlikely at this stage, with a permanent appointment expected in the summer.
Maresca, born on February 10, 1980, began his professional career as a midfielder with West Bromwich Albion in 1998. He played for several Italian clubs, including Juventus, and also had stints with Fiorentina, Sevilla, Olympiacos, and Málaga. He won five major titles with Sevilla. After retiring as a player, Maresca started his managerial career as an assistant at Ascoli. He then managed Manchester City's U23 team, leading them to the Premier League 2 title in 2021. He later served as an assistant under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City before taking the Leicester City job.
Maresca's tactical approach is influenced by Pep Guardiola, emphasizing ball possession, chance creation, and building plays from the back while maintaining defensive solidity. This style, sometimes called "Marescaball," focuses on balance between attack and defense.
Ruben Amorim's short tenure at Manchester United was marked by challenges, and there were hints of disagreements over transfer strategy. Amorim alluded to a potential clash with the club's director of football, Jason Wilcox, regarding preferred transfer targets.
