Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is under increasing scrutiny following a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur. With rumors swirling about possible replacements, one surprising suggestion has come from Pep Guardiola, who hinted that Brentford’s manager, Thomas Frank, could be a viable alternative to high-profile candidates like Inter Milan’s Simone Inzaghi.
Inzaghi Considered but Costs Too High
Reports suggest that Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos have been eyeing Simone Inzaghi as a potential successor to Ten Hag. Inzaghi has earned significant praise for his work at Inter Milan, even giving Manchester City a tough time in last season’s Champions League final. However, according to Inzaghi’s father, bringing him to Manchester would be financially challenging, with his price tag making a Premier League move unlikely.
Guardiola’s Praise for Frank
With Inzaghi potentially out of reach, Pep Guardiola has pointed to Brentford’s Thomas Frank as a manager who plays a similar high-pressing, disciplined style of football. According to Guardiola, Frank’s team is built to win, employing strong defensive tactics, set-piece strength, and the Italian mentality of “suffering” on the field. Frank’s approach at Brentford mirrors some of the qualities seen in Inzaghi’s teams, making him an intriguing option for United.
Financial Constraints Favor a Cheaper Option
Given United’s financial limitations, replacing Ten Hag with a Champions League-level manager could be difficult. Opting for Thomas Frank might be a more economical solution while still delivering the tactical discipline United needs. However, there are questions about whether the fans would welcome Frank, considering him a “cheaper option.”
Conclusion
As Erik ten Hag’s future hangs in the balance, Manchester United may have to explore more practical managerial options. With Simone Inzaghi’s high price tag and Brentford’s Thomas Frank emerging as a potential candidate, the club faces critical decisions in the near future.
