Gareth Southgate Emerges as Top Contender to Replace Ruben Amorim as Manchester United Manager, Joined by Former Star and Real Madrid Icon

Gareth Southgate, the ex-England manager, is a top contender to replace Ruben Amorim if the Manchester United coach is dismissed.

Amorim, 40, is currently in a vulnerable position following a lackluster start to the season, culminating in a distressing penalty shootout defeat to Grimsby from League Two in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night.

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The Portuguese manager took over United last November in a significant decision from the club’s new ownership under Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

However, just under a year into his role, his position is in jeopardy due to the team’s persistent underwhelming displays.

A humiliating loss to Grimsby—who are ranked 56 places and three divisions lower than United—could be the decisive moment.

Southgate is now a leading candidate for the position at Old Trafford if Amorim is parted with.

At 54, Southgate has been away from club management since stepping down from his role as England head coach following their defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final.

He is reported to be a joint favorite at 5/1 to be the next manager of Manchester United.

Nearly a year ago, Southgate was the primary choice for the Red Devils’ next manager.

However, he distanced himself from that opportunity, prompting Ratcliffe’s new regime to opt for a younger candidate in Amorim.

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Recently, Southgate told SunSport that he is enjoying a more relaxed lifestyle since leaving England, focusing on a book about “leadership.”

When questioned about a potential return to management, he remarked, “I have no idea. It’s not something I’m actively pursuing at this time.”

He shares the top odds with former Manchester United player Michael Carrick, according to TalkSPORT bet.

Carrick, who previously managed Middlesbrough, was a promising candidate until their performance dramatically declined last season, leading to his departure in June.

Despite this, he retains strong support at Old Trafford, having been an assistant under former managers Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

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Carrick was unbeaten in three matches as interim manager in 2021, securing two wins and a draw, including a notable 3-2 victory against Arsenal.

Oliver Glasner of Crystal Palace is currently listed at 8/1 for the role, alongside ex-Chelsea coach Mauricio Pochettino, who is now guiding the USA men’s national team.

Bookmakers have also placed Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna, another former United assistant, at 10/1.

Former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane, Fulham‘s Marco Silva, Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola, and former Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez are all currently at 12/1.