Oliver Glasner warned off Manchester United job amid pressure concerns

Oliver Glasner has been cautioned against rushing towards the Manchester United job, with warnings that the role carries unique pressures few managers are fully prepared for.

The Crystal Palace head coach is expected to be among the candidates considered by Manchester United this summer, following the club’s decision to part ways with Ruben Amorim earlier this month.

United have placed Michael Carrick in interim charge until the end of the season, but there is currently no clear indication that the role will become permanent.

Former Germany international Thomas Hitzlsperger has questioned whether the Old Trafford vacancy is the right next step for Glasner, speaking to Swiss outlet Blick.

While acknowledging Glasner’s quality as a coach, Hitzlsperger warned that the Manchester United environment remains deeply challenging.

“Crystal Palace coach Oliver Glasner is in talks. I have a high opinion of him, but he needs to consider whether he really wants to do it,” Hitzlsperger said.

“The environment isn’t easy. There’s a lot of mistrust, a lot of infighting. The stakes are enormous; the club is huge.”

Hitzlsperger added that expectations remain anchored to the club’s past under Sir Alex Ferguson, creating constant tension around whoever occupies the dugout.

According to Hitzlsperger, frustration among supporters and scrutiny from former players combine to make the role uniquely unforgiving.

“The fans still remember the days under Sir Alex Ferguson, and the frustration is immense,” he continued.
“On top of that, there are countless former players who comment on everything and are very critical of the manager.”

That dynamic has proven problematic for several recent United head coaches, many of whom struggled to establish authority amid constant external noise.

For now, United’s focus remains on stabilising performances under Carrick, whose return has already delivered a statement result with a derby win over Manchester City. Hitzlsperger believes that appointment is beneficial for all parties.

“Former professional Michael Carrick is now taking over until the end of the season. I think that’s a good thing,” he said. “He knows how the club operates and gives the management some breathing room.”

United have previously turned interim solutions into permanent ones, most notably with Ole Gunnar Solskjær, whose caretaker spell evolved into a full-time appointment.

Glasner has already confirmed he will leave Selhurst Park at the end of his contract, making him an accessible option in a crowded managerial market. Whether he decides to engage seriously with United, however, may depend on how much faith he has in the club’s direction — and his appetite for scrutiny.

Manchester United are likely to continue assessing candidates while monitoring Carrick’s interim spell. Glasner’s situation will become clearer once the season approaches its conclusion, with formal talks expected only after United settle on a long-term direction.

Should Oliver Glasner take on the Manchester United challenge, or is steering clear of Old Trafford the smarter career move?