There is a new debate at Manchester United after the horrendous defeat at Crystal Palace.
The 4-0 loss at Selhurst Park has supporters and pundits wondering if Erik ten Hag has any chance of turning around the team’s form in time for the FA Cup final.
Manchester United face Arsenal, Newcastle, Brighton and Manchester City. It’s very possible that the team lose all four.
United head into these fixtures on a run of just one win in seven league games, this victory coming against relegated Sheffield United.
Interim manager debate
There is talk now whether appointing an interim manager would give the squad a much-needed lift, and stand a better chance of winning the FA Cup final.
Two high-profile names have already been touted, who have won major trophies in England before.
Former Premier League midfielder Jamie O’Hara called for Jose Mourinho to get the nod, ahead of games against Arsenal and Manchester City.
O’Hara wrote on X: “Get Jose in for four games, that can’t go on, Pep and Arteta would be going ‘oh here we go’, do it Man Utd!”
A report shortly after via The MEN stated that Jose Mourinho is keen on a return to manage the club.
According to The Mail, earlier this year, Mourinho feels he has ‘unfinished business’ at Manchester United, even if past comments from Sir Jim Ratcliffe make this unlikely.
Another name thrown into the mix is another title winner, Antonio Conte. Italian outlet Rai News reports Manchester United could be an option for the Italian’s next job.
While this seems very unlikely, on an interim boss – as we asked earlier regarding Ole Gunnar Solskjaer‘s availability – do United have anything to lose?
McClaren also touted
The subject of an interim manager was raised by Michael Owen and Paul Scholes after the defeat at Palace.
Both agreed Steve McClaren could step up, confident he is not being allowed to leave his own imprint on the current Manchester United coaching set up.
Ineos have so far offered no indication they are ready to immediately dismiss Erik ten Hag and appoint a successor in his place, preferring a more measured approach than a panic move. The Telegraph insists Ten Hag will remain in charge.
But if they made it, and an emergency solution delivered a FA Cup win, they would look very smart indeed.