Julen Lopetegui is reportedly ‘very well placed’ in the running to become Manchester United manager, should the club lose patience with Erik ten Hag.
Ten Hag is under pressure following the club’s Champions League exit this week, with a 1-0 defeat at home to Bayern Munich confirming the Red Devils’ early elimination from Europe.
United finished bottom of their Champions League group for just the second time, with their 15 goals conceded a record for an English team in the competition’s group stage.
Ten Hag’s team have now lost 12 of their 24 games in all competitions this season, as many defeats as in their 62 matches in 2022/23, including seven in the Premier League. A humbling 3-0 defeat at home to Bournemouth last weekend has left the side sixth, six points adrift of the top four.
According to Spanish outlet Relevo, former Wolves manager Julen Lopetegui will be in the running to replace Ten Hag should he be dismissed. The 57-year-old walked out on Wolves due to a lack of financial backing days before the new season, but has remained in England and is keen for another Premier League opportunity.
Lopetegui’s past roles include Real Madrid and the Spanish national team, with his coaching credentials appreciated at Old Trafford. Current Manchester United squad members, Casemiro, Raphael Varane and Sergio Reguilon have all previously worked under Lopetegui.
Any decision is expected to wait until Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s minority takeover is completed. The British billionaire is set to purchase 25% of the club and will take control of the sporting project.
