After Erik ten Hag’s dismissal on Monday, Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has urged the club to seriously consider Zinedine Zidane as a prime candidate for the managerial position, despite ongoing efforts to hire Ruben Amorim. Scholes’s recommendation comes during a pivotal time for United, as the club undergoes significant changes under the new football management of Ineos, which is now guiding operations at Old Trafford.
The club is actively searching for a new head coach to lead them forward, aiming for a high-profile permanent appointment. For now, former United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is serving as interim manager, but reports suggest his willingness to take on a permanent role is uncertain, adding urgency to United’s quest for a long-term solution.
Recently, it has been reported that United has reached a preliminary agreement with Sporting Lisbon for Amorim, a 38-year-old Portuguese coach who has gained recognition in Europe by leading Sporting to their first league title in nearly two decades. His success has attracted interest from other clubs, including Manchester City, should Pep Guardiola leave. This highlights Amorim’s appeal as a young, innovative manager capable of revitalizing top teams.
However, Scholes has expressed reservations about Amorim’s fit for United. While he considers Amorim an “interesting option,” he worries that his lack of experience with elite clubs could be a drawback. Scholes argues that United needs a proven leader who can handle the pressures of managing a prestigious club, suggesting Zidane could be a better choice given his successful track record at Real Madrid, where he secured multiple Champions League titles and La Liga championships.
Although Zidane’s managerial credentials are impressive, Scholes notes a potential challenge: Zidane’s limited English proficiency, which might hinder effective communication in the Premier League. Nevertheless, Scholes believes Zidane’s experience with high-profile players and major trophies could make him well-suited to meet United’s expectations and revitalize the team’s standing in domestic and European competitions.
Scholes also mentioned other potential candidates, including Brentford’s Thomas Frank. Despite Frank’s success, Scholes stressed the need for a manager with a strong track record at the highest level, someone who commands respect from a squad filled with top talent. “Zidane has succeeded at a top-level club and won significant honors, but whether he would be willing to come to England is uncertain,” Scholes remarked. He emphasizes that United’s next manager should be not only a skilled tactician but also someone who understands the legacy and demands of managing at Old Trafford.
In Scholes’s opinion, hiring Zidane would send a strong message to fans and players alike. He believes the club should prioritize candidates who can deliver immediate impact and stability, helping United regain their position among Europe’s elite.
