Ex-Man City boss 'tells friends he could replace Ruben Amorim at Man Utd' as Premier League title-winner emerges as shock managerial contender

Mancini has reportedly told close friends that he could be a surprise candidate to take over at Manchester United should the club decide to part ways with current boss Amorim. According to The Sun, the Italian tactician, out of work since leaving his role with the Saudi Arabia national team a year ago, believes he has a chance of being considered if United make a managerial change.

Mancini, who remains well connected in the football world, has a base in the South of France and is said to have crossed paths with Ineos chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe at several social events. The 60-year-old’s name has re-emerged in speculation surrounding Amorim’s uncertain future, although it would mark a dramatic shift given Mancini’s long-standing association with Manchester City. Despite that, his experience and track record at the top level of European football could make him an intriguing option should the Red Devils decide to act.

While Mancini’s links to the Old Trafford job may surprise some, his managerial pedigree remains impressive. He spent three and a half years at City between 2009 and 2013, guiding the club to their first Premier League crown in 44 years and ending their 34-year trophy drought with an FA Cup triumph in 2011. During that time, he amassed 113 wins from 191 games, recording a near-60% win rate and laying the groundwork for City’s modern dominance.

Mancini later achieved international glory with Italy, steering the Azzurri to victory at Euro 2020 after an unforgettable penalty shootout win over England at Wembley. His recent departure from the Saudi Arabia job means he is available for immediate employment, and his blend of club and international success makes him one of the most decorated managers currently unattached. Even so, the idea of him switching allegiances to City’s fierce rivals may not sit comfortably with supporters who still remember his defining moments in sky blue.

Mancini’s post-City career has taken him across Europe and beyond, adding layers to an already accomplished resume. Following his Etihad exit in 2013, he managed Galatasaray, where he lifted the Turkish Cup, before returning to Inter Milan for a second stint and later overseeing Zenit Saint Petersburg in Russia.

His most celebrated chapter, however, came as Italy boss, guiding the national team to a world-record 37-game unbeaten streak and a European Championship title. That golden run cemented his reputation as one of the game’s great motivators, even though his subsequent failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup cast a shadow on his tenure.

After stepping down in 2023, Mancini took charge of Saudi Arabia but left a year later, citing a desire for new challenges. His familiarity with English football, proven trophy-winning record, and established relationships within European football’s elite could make him an appealing candidate for United, who are reportedly also monitoring Gareth Southgate and Oliver Glasner.

For now, Amorim remains in charge at Old Trafford, though uncertainty around his future continues to grow following a stuttering start to the campaign.  The Red Devils’ upcoming fixtures are expected to prove decisive in determining Amorim’s short-term fate, as poor results could accelerate the search for alternatives. Amorim's side will take on Liverpool at Anfield up next before they face off against Brighton and Nottingham Forest.

Mancini, meanwhile, continues to enjoy time away from management, but his expressed interest in returning to the Premier League hints that he remains hungry for another major challenge. United’s hierarchy, led by Ratcliffe’s Ineos group, are believed to be assessing all options, with Mancini’s name one of several under consideration.

Whether the Italian would genuinely be willing to take on such a high-pressure role at a club still rebuilding its identity remains to be seen. If United do decide to make a change, the idea of a former City hero taking over at Old Trafford would certainly add an intriguing twist to one of football’s fiercest rivalries.