Manchester United have found themselves at the centre of speculation as rumours circulate about the club’s alleged plan to appoint Gareth Southgate as their new manager. This comes amid reports that the upcoming clash against Sunderland could be a decisive one for the current boss, Ruben Amorim.
The Red Devils have struggled to reclaim their former glory since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013, persistently stumbling through managerial appointments and player recruitment. The club has faced increasing criticism concerning its structural direction, particularly following Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS acquiring a stake, which coincided with one of United’s poorest seasons in Premier League history.
The club finished a dismal 15th in the league standings and suffered a Europa League final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, heightening the need for substantial changes at Old Trafford. Former Manchester City defender, Joleon Lescott, has voiced his belief that United may be engineering a situation where fans will eventually accept Southgate’s appointment after a poor tenure under Amorim.
Lescott commented on the podcast In The Mixer stating, “I reckon they’ve previously shown interest in Gareth Southgate, and I think they’re letting things deteriorate to a point where the fans will view him more favourably. I believe Southgate is well-suited for a transition phase, capable of cultivating a positive culture reminiscent of the dynamic he fostered within the England squad.”
Former United assistant manager, Rene Meulensteen, has publicly criticised the club’s current state, asserting that Manchester United is “broken in two ways” on both the pitch and off it. This follows a humbling 3-1 defeat to Brentford, further underlining the team’s struggles. Meanwhile, United forward Bryan Mbeumo acknowledged the difficulties of adapting to Amorim’s tactical system but stressed the collective responsibility of the players to improve performances.
As United prepare for their crucial encounter with Sunderland, the pressure is undeniably mounting on Amorim. Internal reports suggest that a failure to secure a victory could trigger serious consequences for the Portuguese manager, possibly paving the way for Southgate’s entrance. With the backdrop of fan expectations and historical success, Manchester United are once again seeking the right formula to restore their stature within English football.
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