Julen Lopetegui has been out of work since leaving Wolves in August (Picture: Getty)
Former Wolverhampton Wanderers boss Julen Lopetegui has reportedly become a ‘strong candidate’ to replace Erik ten Hag at Manchester United.
Ten Hag is under huge pressure at Old Trafford after United finished bottom of their Champions League group while the Red Devils are also sixth in the Premier League table after Saturday’s humiliating 3-0 home defeat to AFC Bournemouth.
Dutch boss Ten Hag has faced criticism over his choice of signings, style of football and treatment of certain stars – including Jadon Sancho.
Some pundits have called for United to sack Ten Hag and bring in a new manager, with the club now believed to be actively looking at possible candidates.
According to Spanish outlet Relevo, Lopetegui has emerged as a top option due to the job he did at Wolves, his knowledge of the English language and the Premier League as well as his experience in European competitions.
Lopetegui is also thought to have impressed United’s board due to his strong relationship with some current players in the dressing room including Casemiro, Raphael Varane and Sergio Reguilon.
Those factors, as well as his relationship with former United goalkeeper David de Gea – who the club reportedly want to bring back – have seen Lopetegui become more of a favourable candidate over Zinedine Zidane, Graham Potter and Roberto De Zerbi.
More: Trending
Lopetegui has been out of work since leaving Wolves in August and he has also previously managed Spain, Real Madrid and Sevilla.
The 57-year-old, who led Sevilla to Europa League glory in 2020, is said to view United as the ‘perfect’ project and he is very keen on succeeding Ten Hag.
Lopetegui recently rejected a lucrative offer to manage in the Saudi Pro League and is keen to continue his career in England after his spell at Wolves.
MORE : Manchester United star Alejandro Garnacho branded a ‘hooligan’ by German press
MORE : Jaap Stam still has concerns over ‘exploitable’ Manchester United defender