Man Utd suffer another BLOW in manager search

Carlo Garganese

• Updated: 21 May 2024 06:57 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United have suffered another blow in their search for a replacement for Erik ten Hag.

Gazzetta dello Sport has revealed that AC Milan have opened talks with Roberto De Zerbi about potentially being their new manager.

De Zerbi shocked English football last week when it was announced that he was leaving Brighton.

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Brighton’s 2-0 defeat to Man Utd on Sunday was his final game in charge of the club after less than two years there.

De Zerbi has gained the reputation as one of Europe’s most exciting young coaches, taking Brighton into Europe for the first time in their history, playing great football and developing a host of talented players.

The Italian is on the shortlist to replace Erik ten Hag as Man Utd manager this summer, along with the likes of Gareth Southgate, Graham Potter, Kieran McKenna and Thomas Tuchel.

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De Zerbi to Milan

But the chances of Man Utd hiring De Zerbi have now reduced after Gazzetta revealed that Milan have opened talks with De Zerbi.

Milan are searching for a new coach for the 2024-25 season as Stefano Pioli will leave at the end of the campaign.

Lille manager Paulo Fonseca is currently the favourite for the post and has already held talks for the job.

But the departure of De Zerbi from Brighton has led to Milan opening talks with the Italian too.

Milan had initially not been interested in De Zerbi due to his high release clause at Brighton.

De Zerbi is a former youth team player for Milan and also supported the club as a kid.

The former Shakhtar boss is also a target for Bayern Munich this summer as they look for a replacement for Thomas Tuchel.

Chelsea have also been linked with De Zerbi is they get rid of Mauricio Pochettino. The Argentine is also at risk of the sack, although the strong end to the season by the Blues may mean get gets another chance next season.