Xavi Hernández and Oliver Glasner Lead Manchester United Manager Shortlist After Amorim Exit

Manchester United have officially entered a new era following the departure of Rúben Amorim and are already evaluating options to rebuild their sporting project. While Darren Fletcher steps in as interim manager, the club’s board have begun internal discussions to appoint the next permanent head coach.

According to The Telegraph, several high-profile names are under consideration, with Oliver Glasner emerging as the leading candidate. However, Xavi Hernández has also resurfaced as a serious alternative who is generating growing interest at Old Trafford.

In addition to Glasner and Xavi, the Red Devils are reviewing a wide shortlist that includes Enzo Maresca, Gareth Southgate, Marco Silva, Michael Carrick, Roberto De Zerbi, Kieran McKenna, Julian Nagelsmann, Mauricio Pochettino, Eddie Howe and Thomas Tuchel. The club’s priority is to secure a coach with immediate leadership, tactical clarity and the ability to stabilize a squad that has endured a turbulent period.

After several failed projects in recent years, Manchester United are determined to avoid another misstep. The selection process is therefore being handled cautiously, with emphasis on experience in high-pressure environments and the capacity to rebuild dressing-room confidence.

Xavi Hernández is no stranger to the club’s internal discussions. Since leaving Barcelona in 2024, the former midfield legend has repeatedly appeared in United’s long-term planning conversations, especially when Amorim’s tenure began to show signs of decline. Interest in Xavi intensified last October, but the club opted at the time to back the Portuguese coach. Now, with the managerial vacancy confirmed, Xavi has re-emerged as an attractive option thanks to his elite playing pedigree and a clearly defined football philosophy.

Oliver Glasner, meanwhile, currently holds the advantage due to his recent success in England. The Austrian coach led Crystal Palace to FA Cup and Community Shield triumphs over Manchester City, achievements that significantly boosted his reputation within the Premier League. Although Palace have struggled in the league this season, Glasner’s ability to extract maximum performance from limited squads places him firmly at the top of United’s list.

Manchester United must now decide whether to pursue the global profile and long-term vision of Xavi Hernández or opt for the proven tactical solidity and recent silverware delivered by Oliver Glasner. The decision will define the club’s next chapter.