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| Kobbie Mainoo shone brightly in England's 2-2 draw against Belgium on Tuesday and could be the next big thing at Old Trafford. (Photo credit: Sky Sports) |
After Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos group now in charge of football operations at United following the completion of their purchase of a 27% stake in the club in February, sources have said that the new regime, led by Ineos director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford, is attempting to build a new coaching structure led by a head coach.
With Erik Ten Hag’s place under intense scrutiny following a run of unconvincing performances, fans are agitated about his future, but the Dutchman is convinced he is the man for the job and won’t be drawn to his exit conversations.
On the pitch, Manchester United need more results to keep fans silent. Their FA Cup semifinal game against Championship side Coventry City looks good for them on paper, but you don’t know what to expect from this crop of players.
There’s a shining light in the gloomy storm raging at Old Trafford. Eighteen-year-old Kobbie Mainoo shone brightly in his cameo against Brazil and on his full England debut against Belgium, winning the man of the match in a game where senior boys failed to spark.
Beyond Mainoo, there’s Alejandro Garnacho, who is also impressing the new owners, and Rasmus Hojlund in attack. The likes of Anthony Martial, Antony, Marcus Rashford, Sofyan Amrabat, and Rafael Varane are said to be smoking their last straws at the club.
Wolves manager Gary O’Neil has been penciled down to replace Ten Hag should the new owners show him the exit door. O’Neil joined the Molineux club on a three-year deal, but he could be on his way to Manchester United; however, his role isn’t defined yet.
While O’Neil could be a part of a rich backroom staff as a head coach, England manager Gareth Southgate has been added to a three-man shortlist. Brighton head coach Roberto Di Zerbi is another name on the list, with the club seeking a return to glory days.