Former Newcastle manager target Unai Emery is now reportedly being eyed up by Manchester United to replace Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
According to Bild journalist Christian Falk, the 50-year-old head coach is ‘a candidate’ for the Premier League giants. With the likes of Mauricio Pochettino, Julen Lopetegui and Brendan Rodgers also reportedly wanted by United.
Whilst contact is yet to be initiated between United and Emery, it is surprising that the Red Devils are keen on the Villarreal boss. Emery publicly rejected a move to Newcastle earlier in the year.
The Spanish manager posted a statement on his official Twitter account that he was comfortable working with Villarreal and that he was eager to continue with the La Liga side. Who this season are in the UEFA Champions League.
Indeed, it would be a kick in the teeth for Newcastle if Emery was to accept the United job following the episode that saw the Spaniard reject the Magpies. With Eddie Howe now the manager of the club.
However, given the massive gulfs in quality and size between Newcastle and United, it would perhaps make more sense if Emery was considering a midseason switch to the Manchester giants.
United move for Emery would be a slap in the face for Newcastle
Newcastle’s search for a new manager was long and tedious. However, early impressions seem to indicate that Howe will be a fine coach to steady the ship and to launch the club into an exciting new era.
However, United’s interest in Emery is somewhat insulting to Newcastle given what happened earlier this year. And whilst the Manchester side can offer more than the Toon, it would be a slap in the face if the Villarreal boss was to return to England and manage the Red Devils.
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