Profiling the top 4 candidates for the full-time managerial position at Manchester United

Things are always interesting at Old Trafford and this season is no exception. Despite the best efforts of Jose Mourinho, the club remain firmly in contention for both the top 4 and the Champions League title.

That said, given their financial resources, United should really be fighting at the top of the Premier League. They have some talented young players and the financial means to add to their squad this summer.

Whilst the playing staff is definitely important, who they decide to be their full-time manager position is arguably their most important decision this summer. Given the relative failures of some of their recent appointments, it’s imperative that they get this one right. We’ll take a look at 4 candidates United should consider this summer, analysing their fit for the role.

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#1 Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

Whilst things looked precarious for the Red Devils early this season, the interim appointment of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer appears to be a masterstroke. He has the team playing with newfound confidence and swagger, just 2 points behind Arsenal for a spot in the top 4.

Perhaps his most impressive accomplishment so far was a win over Paris-Saint Germain in the Champions League Round of 16. Whilst the Ligue 1 leaders were dealing with some injuries, Solskjaer’s men pulled off a very impressive comeback on the road.

Importantly, Solskjaer appears to have galvanized both the players and the fans. Gone is the toxic atmosphere surrounding Jose Mourinho, which has been replaced by a sense of optimism around Old Trafford.

As things stand, Solskjaer is the firm favourite to be the Red Devils manager at the start of next season. If he can get them into the top 4 and put in a solid effort against Barcelona in the Champions League, it is likely his job to lose.

#2 Mauricio Pochettino

Southampton FC v Tottenham Hotspur - Premier League

For several seasons now current Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino has been linked with a move to Old Trafford. He has done a wonderful job at Spurs, turning a squad with minimal financial investment into a regular top 4 side.

Spurs have had another outstanding league campaign, and whilst they have faded a bit of late, they still remain in 3rd place. Importantly, they also remain in Champions League contention but face a very tough quarter-final against Man City.

Whilst Pochettino has been criticised by some in the media for not winning a trophy, you can’t deny the fact that he has been a consistently strong manager for Spurs. This is one of the stronger periods they’ve had in recent years, in part due to Mauricio’s astute leadership. With a bit more financial backing at United, chances are he could get even better results.

#3 Massimiliano Allegri

Genoa CFC v Juventus - Serie A

Whilst it is a somewhat unlikely option, Allegri would represent a huge upgrade as manager for Man United. He has done a phenomenal job at Juventus, winning the Serie A and Coppa Italia in each of his first 4 seasons.

Juve have also been a consistent force in the Champions League, finishing as Runners Up in two of Allegri’s 4 seasons in charge. They look poised to win yet another Serie A title this season and currently sit nicely in the quarters of the Champions League.

Renowned for being an excellent defensive coach, Allegri could definitely help improve a somewhat leaky United defence. Especially against talented sides like Man City and Liverpool, he could really stake his claim as one of the world’s premier managers. United definitely have the financial resources to make this happen, though it remains an unlikely possibility.

#4 Gareth Southgate

Huddersfield Town v AFC Bournemouth - Premier League

Although many people weren’t too happy with the appointment at the time, it’s hard to argue with what Gareth Southgate has done as England Manager. He has the side playing a fast-paced and enjoyable style of football, capped off with a World Cup semi-final last summer.

Southgate now has the experience managing on the top stage in a pressure-filled environment, making him well equipped to handle the crucible at Old Trafford. He also has experience with some of United’s top young players in the England squad, including Marcus Rashford, Luke Shaw, and Jesse Lingard.

Given that he guided England to such a strong World Cup run, I imagine United fans will be willing to give him the necessary time to succeed. Especially with the strong financial resources at their disposal, they could really gather a team to play to Southgate’s strengths.