Thomas Frank to Man Utd?! Brentford boss emerges as 'strong contender' to replace Erik ten Hag as he's boosted by pre-existing relationship with INEOS

As United officials deliberate over the future of Ten Hag, the sporting management of the club is looking at alternative options should they decide to part ways with the Dutch manager this summer. Securing a European slot through league standings seems difficult after their latest loss to Arsenal and the FA Cup final could prove to be their ticket to continental football next season, provided they beat Manchester City at Wembley on May 25.

According to The Telegraph, Frank's tenure at Brentford has garnered admiration from decision-makers at Old Trafford, owing to his commendable work over the past six years. Moreover, his association with INEOS during a previous collaboration with Sir Dave Brailsford - the director of sport at the company - positions him favourably in the eyes of United's new minority owners. His managerial style and ethos align with United's new structural framework, with the club seeking a head coach dedicated solely to team management, while other aspects like recruitment are overseen by incoming figures such as sporting director Dan Ashworth and technical director Jason Wilcox.

Frank is recognised for his scientific working methods, which are hugely dependent on data and metrics, and his success at Brentford has earned him a contract until 2027. Hence, despite being untested among the elite echelons of English football, Frank's potential has not gone unnoticed, with United prioritising a candidate who can contribute to the club's long-term rebuilding process over immediate short-term success.

Apart from Frank, several other candidates have been linked to United including current Bayern Munich manager, Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane, and Ruben Amorim of Sporting CP, who has a release clause in his contract. Currently positioned eighth in the league table, United faces the possibility of finishing in their lowest position in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era. However, two successive wins against Newcastle and Brighton, respectively, might help them escape that embarrassment. Whereas, lifting the FA Cup could also redeem Ten Hag as well after an underwhelming season.