Elite manager believes Old Trafford door is shut as United cool interest in appointing him – report

A new major development has emerged regarding the possibility of Roberto De Zerbi becoming the next permanent head coach of Manchester United. De Zerbi interest Despite the success that caretaker boss Michael Carrick has enjoyed since he replaced Ruben Amorim in December last year, there are no guarantees that he will be handed the job on a permanent basis. Carrick has taken charge of 10 games, winning seven, drawing two and losing just one. At present, the Red Devils lie in third place in the Premier League table and firmly in the frame to secure Champions League qualification. United remain adamant that they will not make a knee-jerk decision and will only appoint a permanent manager after considering all available options. In addition to De Zerbi, other coaches who continue to be linked to the Old Trafford hot seat include Luis Enrique, Julian Nagelsmann, Andoni Iraola and Oliver Glasner. De Zerbi enjoyed considerable success in England during his spell at Brighton & Hove Albion between 2022 and 2024. He led the Seagulls to European qualification, transforming them into a well-established Premier League club that became synonymous with an attractive brand of football. He then moved to Marseille and helped them to a second-placed finish last term. Internal conflicts and declining performances this term saw De Zerbi part ways with Marseille last month. He has since been strongly rumoured to be on the radar of United and Tottenham Hotspur. The i Paper have provided an update on that front, casting serious doubts about De Zerbi’s chances of landing the United job. De Zerbi to United update The news outlet claims, “The Italian has been out of work since leaving Marseille earlier this year but is keen to return to English football.” “He was on Manchester United’s shortlist but it is believed interest from Old Trafford has cooled and the De Zerbi camp are under the impression that he is no longer a candidate.” As his United prospects diminish, it’s understood that the 46-year-old coach is prepared to “get his hands dirty” and take on the Tottenham Hotspur job. Tottenham are currently embroiled in a relegation battle and there are serious doubts over Igor Tudor, who has lost four of the five Premier League games he has overseen. While others have understandably hesitated to inherit that mess, De Zerbi is said to be relishing the challenge. The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!