Manchester United are searching for a new head coach, and one candidate has caught the attention of Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk.
Michael Carrick has taken over as interim manager until the end of the season, giving Ineos time to make their decision. In his first game in charge, Carrick led United to an impressive 2-0 win over Manchester City.
With 16 matches left in the campaign, he will be looking to build on that strong start and put himself forward for the job full-time. Ahead of the summer, as many as 12 managers have been linked with United.
Ineos are believed to favour someone with Premier League experience, which explains why Roberto De Zerbi has emerged as a leading contender.
Virgil van Dijk speaks up about Man United candidate Roberto De Zerbi
Ineos had De Zerbi high on their list when looking for a replacement for Erik ten Hag, before deciding to go with Ruben Amorim.
The Italian coach is still of interest, and this week he spoke about the Manchester United role. While he made it clear he’s settled at Marseille, he didn’t rule out a move in the future.
After Marseille’s 3-0 defeat to Liverpool in the Champions League on Wednesday, Reds captain Virgil van Dijk had some positive words about Roberto De Zerbi and his staff.
Van Dijk said: “Marseille is a very good team, very good players, very good managers. We had to be very good. Defensively we were very good, offensively we could have been better.”
“They had some chances as well. We needed Ali at his best but overall I’m very pleased with tonight’s performance.”
Roberto De Zerbi is ‘one of the best coaches in the world’
The Italian coach has already interviewed for the job back in 2024 when Ineos was looking for a change in management. Since then both players and former United players have complimented his work and style of play.
Ethan Nwaneri recently said: “He’s one of the best coaches in the world. He’s demanding. I’m ready to play under him and ready to listen to what he wants for the team.”
If there are any doubts about Amorim from Manchester United fans it is because they feel there were better managers available at that time – such as Hansi Flick who has since taken over Barcelona following Xavi Hernandez’s departure.
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