The former Barcelona coach is one of the leading names to replace ten Hag
Manchester United have reportedly made contact with former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez as Erik ten Hag faces increasing pressure following a poor start to the season.
With the Red Devils struggling to find consistency, the Old Trafford hierarchy is considering their options, and Xavi has emerged as a potential candidate for the top job.
Xavi among potential replacements for Ten Hag
According to reports, Manchester United have reached out to Xavi twice in recent months as the club contemplates a possible managerial change.
The former Barcelona coach, who led the Spanish giants to a La Liga title in 2022, is seen as an appealing option to replace the faltering Ten Hag.
Xavi has been without a job since leaving Barcelona in the summer, making him a readily available candidate.
Although Manchester United sources have emphasised that meetings in Barcelona were primarily linked to co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s presence in the city for the America’s Cup, the possibility of Xavi taking over has gained traction as United's struggles continue.
Ten Hag under pressure ahead of tough schedule
Erik ten Hag’s tenure at Manchester United has been far from smooth, with the Dutchman surviving a summer review into his job after the team’s worst-ever Premier League season.
This year, United’s poor form has persisted, leaving them in the bottom half of the table. Despite securing a 2-1 victory over Brentford, Ten Hag has faced criticism following heavy losses to Liverpool and Tottenham.
With Manchester United preparing for a crucial Europa League match against Fenerbahce coached by former Red Devils manager Jose Mourinho, Ten Hag’s future could hinge on the next few games.
Despite Ten Hag winning the FA Cup last season, the prospect of a managerial change at Old Trafford remains in the background, with other candidates like Sporting Lisbon's Ruben Amorim and former Dortmund boss Edin Terzic also being considered.