Enzo Maresca could be the new manager of Manchester United following his departure from Chelsea.

The scene in English football is in turmoil, with Enzo Maresca’s departure from Chelsea paving the way for a surprising twist in the management of Manchester United. Following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim, speculation about who will be the next to lead the Red Devils is intensifying, and Maresca has emerged as the favorite, according to several bookmakers.

Maresca, who had an 18-month stint at Chelsea, saw his tenure end tumultuously on New Year’s Day, following a series of disappointing results and a deteriorating relationship with the club’s management. Just four days later, Amorim, who had been in charge of United for 14 months, was relieved of his duties, shortly after an explosive press conference at Elland Road, where the club drew 1-1 with Leeds, a significant rival in the Premier League.

While Chelsea prepares for a swift transition, with Liam Rosenior being tipped as the new manager ahead of the London derby against Fulham, Manchester United is planning a cautious approach. The expectation is that they will appoint an interim manager to replace Amorim before making a more definitive decision in the summer. Club icon and current U18 manager Darren Fletcher will take the reins for the visit to struggling Burnley.

Betfair’s odds place Maresca as the frontrunner to take over on a full-time basis next season. Various sources indicate that the former Leicester manager has supporters at Old Trafford, particularly among figures such as Jason Wilcox, the club’s sporting director, and Omar Berrada, the CEO, both of whom have a history of working with Maresca at Manchester City.

Furthermore, it is speculated that Maresca has already spoken with City about a possible succession to Pep Guardiola’s position, should he decide to leave the club at the end of the season. The Italian manager is not only seen as a valid option for United, but he has also attracted the attention of Serie A giants such as Juventus.

However, the competition is fierce. Oliver Glasner, whose contract with Crystal Palace expires in the summer, is also a strong name in the race for the United position. Other renowned coaches, such as Gareth Southgate, Thomas Tuchel, Eddie Howe, Roberto De Zerbi, Julian Nagelsmann, Xavi, Marco Silva, and Kieran McKenna, are also on the list of potential candidates.

The coming days promise to be decisive for the future of Manchester United, with growing anticipation around who will be the new manager. The pressure on the club’s management is palpable, and the choice of the new coach could define not only the next season but also the long-term direction of the team.