Ralf Rangnick would be wise to avoid social media today. Despite still holding on to his seat in the Manchester United dugout, names of the German’s possible successor at Old Trafford have recently come to light.
According to The Athletic, United’s hierarchy is focusing on, but not limiting its search to, four full-time managerial candidates.
The shortlist includes regularly linked Mauricio Pochettino and Erik ten Hag, along with Spanish national coach Luis Enrique.
However another, slightly more obscure, option has been thrown into the mix.
Lopetegui – thinking outside the box
Julen Lopetegui is doing a marvellous job at Sevilla, having only taken the reins in summer 2019.
Since his appointment, Lopetegui has revived the La Liga side to the extent they are serious challengers for Atletico Madrid’s league title.
In the Spaniard’s first campaign at the helm, he guided Sevilla to Europa League glory, their fourth victory in the competition since 2013.
His second season ended without silverware but he did break into the top four again while reaching the Copa del Rey semi-final.
Now, just pass the mid-way point in his third term, Lopetegui is seriously in the running to clinch the domestic crown.
Sevilla occupy second place in the Spanish top flight, four points behind Real Madrid.
Madrid needed an 87th-minute winner to defeat Rojiblancos at the end of November, with the date of the reverse fixture yet to be confirmed.
However, that loss hasn’t diverted Sevilla’s path to the top as they continue to keep Carlo Ancelotti and co in sight.
Age is just a number
Lopetegui has impressively maintained the chase with a squad that, on paper, shouldn’t be chasing anyone at all. Transfermarkt states the team on the tails of Madrid has the 16th oldest squad on average in the division.
Sevilla’s highest appearance maker in 2021/22 has been 27-year-old Joan Jordan (32), with 33-year-old Ivan Rakitic and 34-year-old Fernando tying for third (27).
Elsewhere, 33-year-old Papu Gomez is the third joint top scorer (four), while 36-year-old Jesus Navas continues to be a handy addition.
Of course, the side is sprinkled with younger talent such as Jules Kounde and Gonzalo Montiel, yet the majority of their first-team squad are closer to 30 than 20.
This resembles the Manchester United camp. Arguably their best or most important players are 27 or above.
Bruno Fernandes (27), Victor Lindelof (27), Fred (28), Raphael Varane (28), Harry Maguire (28), Alex Telles (29), David de Gea (31), Edinson Cavani (34) and Cristiano Ronaldo (36) have played significant roles since Rangnick stepped into the spotlight.
With a few exceptions, most of those experienced stars will be wearing red once the new boss is appointed.
If that turns out to be Lopetegui, his knowledge of working with older stars could stand him in good stead at Old Trafford.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
