Manchester United finalise managerial shortlist with Mauricio Pochettino and Erik Ten Hag leading contenders

Manchester United expect to open talks with candidates for their vacant managerial position in the coming weeks after the club finalised a shortlist of contenders.

The Red Devils will appoint a new long-term manager in the summer, having placed Ralf Rangnick in interim charge following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s dismissal in November.

Mauricio Pochettino is the leading candidate for the role, particularly as United have twice considered hiring him in the past. However, though Pochettino has always been keen on a move to Old Trafford, it’s unclear whether he’d be willing to leave Paris Saint-Germain.

With uncertainty over Pochettino’s future, United have shortlisted Ajax’s Erik Ten Hag as a back-up and the Dutchman is said to have considerable backing at Old Trafford.

Rangnick is thought to be particularly keen to hire Ten Hag, believing he’s a good fit for United due to his philosophy and ability to blood young players.

However, like Pochettino, he’s tied down to a deal at a major club and that could prove problematic.

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Luis Enrique and Julen Lopetegui are also thought to be candidates, though they’re someway behind Pochettino and Ten Hag in the pecking order.

The Athletic say that now a shortlist has been finalised United now hope to interview each candidate in the coming weeks.

Rangnick is expected to play a vital role in the process, despite his ongoing position as interim manager.

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