Roberto De Zerbi In The Frame To Replace Ruben Amorim At Manchester United
The Italian is likely to be on the shortlist to replace Ruben Amorim.
Roberto De Zerbi is likely to be in the frame to become the next manager of Manchester United.
Manchester United Admire Roberto De Zerbi
United confirmed Ruben Amorim’s dismissal on Monday morning, less than 24 hours after a 1-1 draw with Leeds.
The Portuguese head coach is said to have fallen out with the Old Trafford hierarchy, and the search for his permanent successor is now underway. Under-18s coach Darren Fletcher has taken charge in the interim.
Former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca could be in the frame, but Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner is the top target.
United are said to hugely admire his work at Selhurst Park and their pursuit will be boosted by his likely departure from Palace at the end of the season, despite him leading them to two trophies.
However, according to The Telegraph, there remains ‘significant support’ for De Zerbi at United.
The Italian was in charge of Brighton and Hove Albion in the English top-flight between 2022 and 2024. He currently manages Marseille, who sit third in Ligue 1, eight points adrift of top spot.
De Zerbi was interviewed by United during their hunt for Erik ten Hag’s successor in the summer of 2024, before ultimately deciding to hand the Dutchman a new contract – an ill-fated decision.
The Red Devils initially made Thomas Tuchel and De Zerbi their prime candidates, and even discussed financial terms with the latter. Despite them believing the package on offer was fair, it was rejected.
United then chose not to make an improved offer, eventually setting their sights on Amorim.
The 46-year-old is admired by figures at United and would be open to returning to the Premier League. At present, though, Glasner appears to be in pole position.
United legend Rio Ferdinand quickly threw his weight behind either De Zerbi, Tuchel or Xavi Hernandez. Regardless, a decision on a long-term replacement is likely to wait until the summer.
I would go….
De Zerbi / Tuchel / Xavi or Darren Fletcher if does well?#MUFC— Rio Ferdinand (@rioferdy5) January 5, 2026
Manchester United’s Roberto De Zerbi Offer
According to reports, De Zerbi sensationally showed his Marseille players his job offer from United in a team talk.
Per L’Equipe, he used a projector to show the squad his proposed contract before their first game of the season.
He said: “This is where I could have been, but I put my passion before money. I came to Marseille for the passion.”
De Zerbi’s contract runs until June 2027, and it remains to be seen whether he would accept the job should United come calling again. He had previously held talks with AC Milan, only to choose to remain in France.
Dan Davis
Dan is an experienced sports journalist and part-time lecturer. An expert on Serie A and Italian football, he has produced content for the likes of the Daily Mail, Reach PLC, GiveMeSport, FourFourTwo and GRV Media. While Channel 4's iconic Football Italia was a bit before his time, the nostalgia - and pastries - fuelled his love of all things Calcio.
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