Manchester United Interested in Holding Talks with Gary O'Neil for Potential Coaching Role

According to reports, Manchester United is interested in holding discussions with Wolves manager Gary O'Neil regarding a potential coaching role at Old Trafford. The club's new part-owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, aims to restructure the coaching setup at United by establishing a team under a head coach rather than a traditional manager.

United officials have identified O'Neil as a candidate they would like to speak to regarding a potential switch from Molineux to Old Trafford, as per ESPN. The specific nature of the role being considered for O'Neil remains unclear, but the report suggests that he has been made aware of United's interest.

The situation regarding Erik ten Hag, the current head coach of Ajax, is also uncertain, and it is unclear whether O'Neil would join him in the dugout or if the two potential appointments are separate.

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Following Manchester United's exhilarating victory against Liverpool in the FA Cup before the international break, Erik ten Hag's position as head coach has potentially been strengthened. However, the club's hierarchy has not yet reached a final decision on whether he will remain at the helm next season.

As part of their evaluation process, the 13-time Premier League champions have been linked with other potential candidates such as Gareth Southgate, Roberto De Zerbi, and Thomas Frank. The club's owners, including Sir Jim Ratcliffe, are carefully considering whether Ten Hag is the right person to lead the team into the future.

Despite taking charge of Wolves just days before the start of the season, Gary O'Neil, 40, has thrived in his role, leading the club to an impressive ninth-place position in the Premier League. With the club still in contention for European qualification, O'Neil's tenure has been a success.

Previously, O'Neil made a strong impression at Bournemouth, where he took over the team following a 9-0 defeat by Liverpool at the beginning of the season. He guided Bournemouth to safety in the league, showcasing his managerial capabilities.

O'Neil is currently under a three-year contract with Wolves, which means Manchester United would likely have to pay compensation if they intensify their interest in him.

If O'Neil decides to join Manchester United, it would be another notable move orchestrated by Sir Jim Ratcliffe off the pitch. Ratcliffe has already managed to attract Omar Berrada away from Manchester City, with Berrada set to assume the role of CEO at United in the upcoming summer.

In addition to O'Neil, United is also interested in securing Dan Ashworth from Newcastle to serve as their new sporting director. However, the two clubs have yet to agree on a compensation fee, as Ashworth was placed on gardening leave by Newcastle last month.

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