Manchester United have begun their search for a new permanent manager, and former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has quickly been installed as an early frontrunner for the position.
Amorim Departs After Old Trafford Fallout
The managerial vacancy was created on Monday morning when the club sacked Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese coach's departure follows a reported falling out with the club's hierarchy, despite the team sitting sixth in the Premier League after 20 matches. His final game was a 1-1 draw with Leeds United on Sunday.
Former Red Devils midfielder Darren Fletcher has taken temporary charge on an interim basis while the club identifies a long-term successor. Alongside Maresca, other names linked with the role include Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner and former England manager Gareth Southgate.
Maresca's Availability and Past Praise for United
Enzo Maresca became available for a swift return to management after leaving Chelsea by mutual agreement on New Year's Day. The 45-year-old Italian's exit was reportedly driven by frustrations over a lack of control, even after guiding Chelsea to UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup glory in 2025.
Intriguingly, Maresca has spoken about Manchester United on several occasions. Back in September, when first linked with the job, he affirmed his commitment to Chelsea but also acknowledged the stature of the Old Trafford club.
"I think Manchester United is a big club," Maresca stated. He also expressed admiration for then-manager Ruben Amorim, calling him a "magnificent" and "fantastic manager."
Recognising the Old Trafford Atmosphere
Maresca's experience of taking Chelsea to the Theatre of Dreams also gave him insight into the unique challenge it presents. Ahead of that fixture, following the sacking of Erik ten Hag, he noted the typical player reaction to a managerial change.
"When you change manager, always for the first one, two, three games, you can see the reaction from the players. So probably it will be [difficult]," he said.
He also placed Old Trafford among the world's most intimidating venues, saying: "For sure, Old Trafford is one of the stadiums in the world that is 'nice' in terms of intimidation. Like Anfield. Or in Italy, the San Siro years ago, or in Spain, Barcelona and Madrid."
With Maresca now a free agent and having previously recognised the scale of the Manchester United project, his candidacy is expected to be seriously considered as the club aims to stabilise and climb the Premier League table.
