Roberto De Zerbi has played down speculation over a potential return to the Premier League, insisting his focus remains firmly on his current role despite being linked with the vacant Manchester United job.
The Italian coach was speaking after his Olympique de Marseille side were beaten 3–0 by Liverpool in the Champions League on Wednesday night. Asked directly by TNT Sports whether he would consider a move back to England should a major opportunity arise in the summer, De Zerbi struck a cautious tone.
“I don’t know in this moment,” he said. “I have to repeat, in this moment I am working in Marseille. I am very happy to stay here. I am working with passion and for the future, I don’t know.”
Manchester United search continues
De Zerbi’s comments come amid growing uncertainty at Manchester United. The club appointed Michael Carrick as interim head coach until the end of the season following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim earlier this month.
Carrick’s early impact has been positive, highlighted by a high-profile 2–0 derby win over Manchester City. However, United’s ownership group, led by Ineos, are continuing their search for a permanent successor, with De Zerbi emerging as one of several names under consideration.
Track record still resonates at Old Trafford
De Zerbi’s reputation in English football was forged during his spell at Brighton & Hove Albion, where his possession-based approach and tactical clarity earned widespread praise. Brighton’s recruitment model and playing identity have previously impressed Ineos, even if subsequent structural decisions — including the short-lived appointment of Dan Ashworth — failed to deliver the desired results.
Having followed United’s managerial evolution closely this season, the appeal of De Zerbi lies in his ability to implement a clear footballing philosophy while developing players within a defined system.
Other candidates in the frame
De Zerbi is far from the only name being discussed. Thomas Tuchel has been mentioned in recent reports, while Oliver Glasner is also understood to be interested in the role.
Glasner, currently at Crystal Palace, confirmed last week that he intends to leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season. Despite internal tensions — including public criticism of the club’s handling of Marc Guéhi’s situation — Palace ultimately opted to continue with the Austrian for the remainder of the campaign.
United sources suggest Glasner’s preferred 3-4-2-1 system would not count against him in any interview process, even though Amorim’s refusal to adapt a similar shape was one of the factors behind his exit.
Key Insights
- Roberto De Zerbi insists his focus is on Marseille.
- Manchester United are still assessing long-term options.
- Michael Carrick remains interim until the summer.
- De Zerbi’s Brighton work continues to impress decision-makers.
- Multiple candidates remain under consideration.
What’s Next
Manchester United are expected to continue their due diligence well into the spring, with no rush to make a permanent appointment while Carrick remains in place. For De Zerbi, attention now turns back to domestic and European commitments with Marseille, though his name is likely to stay in circulation as the managerial market develops.
However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions on United’s eventual choice, with results, availability and strategic alignment all set to influence the final decision.
Should Manchester United prioritise a clear footballing philosophy over short-term results when choosing their next manager?
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