Manchester United linked with 'Baby Mourinho' for permanent manager role - report

Manchester United have been linked with Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann as they seek to appoint a new permanent manager this summer.

Nicknamed ‘Baby Mourinho‘ according to the Bundesliga website, Nagelsmann will lead Germany to this summer’s World Cup. He is under contract until 2028 after signing a new deal in January.

He broke into limelight after impressing at Hoffenheim and RB Leipzig. He won the VDV Coach of the Season and German Football Manager of the Year in 2017.

Despite an unsuccessful spell at Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich, the German Football Association snapped him up in 2023.

Nagelsmann prefers a 4-2-3-1 formation, a tactical set-up United have used successfully under interim manager Michael Carrick.

Journalist Ben Jacobs has confirmed United’s interest in the German tactician, while also revealing that they have not held talks with him.

He told The United Stand: “Nagelsmann is among the names being discussed internally. He is open to opportunities now, but there have been no formal talks or interviews with anyone from the United board.”

United would likely pay a compensation fee to the German FA if they were to hire Nagelsmann.

Jacobs has ruled out the possibility of appointing Luis Enrique, with the Spanish coach set to sign a new three-year deal with Paris Saint-Germain.

Meanwhile, United have not approached Gareth Southgate, while Enzo Maresca and Xabi Alonso are not under consideration.

In addition, Jacobs claims Carrick has been told he is ‘one of the leading candidates’ for the position.

The former midfielder has been brilliant since his appointment, leading United’s Champions League qualification push.

However, performances have dipped in recent weeks. He has to ensure United return to Europe’s elite club competition to bolster his chances of getting the job permanently.

Article written by Henry Thornton .