Rúben Amorim was dismissed as Manchester United manager on Monday after just 14 months in charge, immediately igniting speculation over who could take over at Old Trafford.

United have placed under-18s coach Darren Fletcher in temporary charge, with reports suggesting the club is keen to appoint a caretaker manager to see out the remainder of the season while a long-term solution is identified.

As the Red Devils begin the search for their seventh permanent manager since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013, AFP Sport examines some of the leading candidates being linked with the role.

Oliver Glasner

Oliver Glasner enhanced his reputation last season by leading Crystal Palace to the first major trophy in the club’s history with an FA Cup triumph. The 51-year-old Austrian, whose contract runs out at the end of the current campaign, has attracted interest from several clubs. Like Amorim, Glasner has frequently deployed a back three with wing-backs at Palace, though he previously stated that his preferred system is a traditional 4-4-2.

Enzo Maresca

Enzo Maresca became available after leaving Chelsea last week following a breakdown in relations with the club’s hierarchy. The 45-year-old Italian enjoyed success in his debut season at Stamford Bridge, winning both the UEFA Conference League and the Club World Cup. He has also been mentioned as a potential successor to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, should Guardiola step down.

Gareth Southgate

Former England boss Gareth Southgate remains a name of interest at Old Trafford. The 55-year-old is understood to be admired by the United hierarchy and has been linked with the job in the past. However, it remains uncertain whether the ex-Middlesbrough manager would be keen on a return to club football after leaving the England role following Euro 2024.

Unai Emery

Unai Emery has overseen a remarkable revival at Aston Villa since taking charge three years ago. The 54-year-old Spaniard guided Villa to an impressive Champions League campaign last season and has them competing near the top of the Premier League alongside Arsenal and Manchester City, further enhancing his credentials.

Darren Fletcher

Interim boss Darren Fletcher could yet emerge as a contender if he impresses during his temporary spell. The 41-year-old former United midfielder has no prior experience managing a senior side but has a rare opportunity to stake his claim. Fletcher may draw inspiration from former teammate Ole Gunnar Solskjær, who earned the job permanently after a successful caretaker stint.

Thomas Tuchel

Thomas Tuchel is currently focused on leading England into this year’s World Cup, but the 52-year-old German has hinted he may be open to extending his stay. The former Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager could be tempted by the challenge of restoring United’s fortunes if the opportunity arises.

Mauricio Pochettino

Mauricio Pochettino is another familiar name in United’s managerial discussions. The 53-year-old Argentine, previously in charge of Tottenham, PSG and Chelsea, is currently managing the United States national team, which could make him available following the World Cup.

Andoni Iraola

Andoni Iraola has earned widespread praise for his work at Bournemouth since arriving in 2023. The 43-year-old Spaniard has delivered club-record Premier League points totals in consecutive seasons, and his impressive record at Old Trafford — including two 3-0 wins and a thrilling 4-4 draw last month — has only strengthened his growing reputation.

With uncertainty surrounding the dugout, Manchester United now face another pivotal decision as they look to restore stability and success at one of football’s most scrutinised clubs.