Sir Alex Ferguson has Erik ten Hag replacement 'preference' as Man United pressure mounts

Sir Alex Ferguson is a fan of Max Allegri and would support him as the next Manchester United manager, According to Italian reports. Despite being only six games into the season, there's chatter about a managerial change at Old Trafford following a disappointing start that has seen the Red Devils lose three times already.

The recent defeat to Tottenham has increased pressure on the manager. Ten Hag was retained over the summer despite a lacklustre season, but rumours are again swirling about his possible exit.

If he is dismissed, Allegri, who is currently unemployed after his stint at Juventus, is likely to be a top contender for the role. Gazzetta dello Sport, via the Mirror, suggests that Ferguson backs the Italian, a multiple Serie A champion and two-time Champions League finalist.

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Ten Hag's future may hinge on this week's two away games. On Thursday, they face Porto in the Europa League after drawing their opener with Twente.

They then travel to Aston Villa, who are expected to be their rivals for the top four. If both games result in losses for United, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his team may have no option but to make a change, even though Ten Hag was given a new contract in the summer

Allegri was previously linked with the Manchester United job during Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's tenure and even received an offer from Real Madrid before opting for a second stint at Juventus. Should United re-enter the managerial market, Thomas Tuchel is also likely to be a top contender.

Talks were held last summer after his departure from