Why Ineos want Howe for Man Utd job

Jacque Talbot

Updated: 14 Oct 2024 14:57 BST
3 min read

Eddie Howe, Newcastle, 2023/24 — © IMAGO

Manchester United have made Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe an option to replace Erik ten Hag, according to reports.

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If Ineos sack the Dutchman publication GiveMeSport has revealed that the Magpies boss is among the candidates.

The Red Devils have just eight points after seven games, while they sit 14th in the table.

Ineos held a recent meeting where the topic of Ten Hag's future was discussed, with Howe being one who could replace him. But bringing in the Newcastle head coach would require a substantial compensation package to be paid.

The outlet said: "The United executives are huge admirers of the former Bournemouth man. Ten Hag knows he needs to turn performances and results around following a stuttering start to the campaign. Reports have emerged suggesting the ex-Ajax manager has until December to save his job, and sources have informed GMS that Ineos are indeed already assessing potential replacements."

© IMAGO - Erik ten Hag and Marcus Rashford

"There had been murmurings recently that the 46-year-old was discontent with life at St James' Park, following speculation suggesting his relationship with sporting director Paul Mitchell is delicate."

Man Utd wanted Hoeness

But Ten Hag's future is delicate. Sebastian Hoeness was approached by Ineos before they extended his contract this summer, according to reports in Germany.

The VfB Stuttgart boss was linked with a host of top clubs following his accomplishments during the 2023-24 campaign, where he led his side to a second-spot finish in the Bundesliga.

It's thought that Bayern Munich were also interested in hiring Hoeness, but he rejected the Bavarian’s advances and Vincent Kompany was instead appointed as Thomas Tuchel’s replacement.

BILD have now reported that Hoeness was approached by Man Utd this summer, with the Red Devils keen to gauge his interest in a possible move to Old Trafford.

However, Hoeness turned down the chance to become the next Man Utd manager, and Ten Hag’s contract was subsequently extended by a further 12 months.

© IMAGO - Man Utd were interested in Sebastian Hoeness this summer

Ten Hag’s side have only netted on five occasions in seven league matches, while their tally of just eight points is the club’s lowest in Premier League history.

Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter and Gareth Southgate have all been linked with the Man Utd job amid Ten Hag’s struggles, although the latter has ruled himself out of contention despite stepping down as England manager after Euro 2024.