Man Utd have five options to replace Erik ten Hag if Thomas Tuchel takes England job

Man Utd could bring Michael Carrick back to the club. (Image: GETTY)

Thomas Tuchel is considered the favourite to become Manchester United manager if Erik ten Hag loses his job in the coming weeks and months. However, the German is reportedly holding talks with the FA regarding the managerial position left vacant by Gareth Southgate after Euro 2024 this summer.

With United retaining faith in Ten Hag for now, their top target could no longer be available by the time they face no choice but to make a change.

Express Sport looks at five alternative candidates to replace the Dutchman should Tuchel replace Southgate.

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Michael Carrick has already gained experience in the Old Trafford dugout since retiring after a 12-year career at United, working as an assistant to Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

He has even taken charge of three matches as interim boss - wins against Villarreal and Arsenal and a draw at Chelsea.

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Carrick has impressed in his first permanent role since joining Middlesbrough in 2022, and he could be deemed an appealing fit to head INEOS' long-term project.

Thomas Frank

Thomas Frank's reputation grows stronger the longer he maintains Brentford's record as a secure Premier League side.

The Danish tactician has earned deserved plaudits for guiding the Bees to the top flight and adapting his approach to keep them there.

Ruud van Nistelrooy would be under consideration. (Image: Getty) Stay up-to-date with the latest Man Utd news Join us on WhatsApp

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It feels like only a matter of time before a European heavyweight tables Frank a job offer. He was among the candidates to hold talks with United in the summer.

Ruud van Nistelrooy

He's the obvious pick at this moment in time. Supporters welcomed Ruud van Nistelrooy's surprise return to United as part of Ten Hag's backroom staff with open arms.

The Dutchman is in the infancy of his managerial career, helming PSV Eindhoven for just one year, but he flaunted his ability and potential by lifting the KNVB Cup.

Van Nistelrooy would likely at least take charge temporarily if Ten Hag was to depart. If the switch makes the desired impact, he could progress on a similar arc to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Graham Potter

The football world is waiting for Graham Potter to return to management. He's been away from the game for 18 months since his Chelsea sacking.

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His turbulent tenure at Stamford Bridge damaged his stocks after encouraging reigns over Swansea City and Brighton and Hove Albion.

Doubts over his credentials at a global behemoth like United are warranted, but Potter has admirers within INEOS. He would be in the frame if he's still available.

Gareth Southgate

Gareth Southgate was relentlessly linked with the United job even while he was still in charge of England. His close relationship with sporting director Dan Ashworth is the source of the speculation.

Earlier this week, the 54-year-old claimed he was taking at least a year away from football management. But if United and Ashworth come knocking, would he ignore the call?

Only Southgate knows the answer to that, for now...

Man Utd have five options to replace Erik ten Hag if Thomas Tuchel takes England job

Man Utd have five options to replace Erik ten Hag if Thomas Tuchel takes England job

Man Utd have five options to replace Erik ten Hag if Thomas Tuchel takes England job

Man Utd have five options to replace Erik ten Hag if Thomas Tuchel takes England job

Man Utd have five options to replace Erik ten Hag if Thomas Tuchel takes England job