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Former Brighton and Hove Albion manager Roberto De Zerbi has admitted that he would not be opposed to returning to manage in the Premier League after leaving the Seagulls on Sunday.
Linked with the Red Devils as a potential successor to Erik ten Hag, De Zerbi appeared in his last match as Brighton manager against none other than Ten Hag’s side.
Despite appearing despondent at times, United surprised the home team by defeating them 2-0 to wrap up what has been a difficult Premier League season on a positive note.
Still, even with a recent improvement in form and the FA Cup final still to play, many United fans have become disillusioned with Ten Hag’s methods, with calls to replace him intensifying as the season has worn on.
Ten Hag produced a rallying cry following United’s 3-2 win over Newcastle last week, making a public address to the Old Trafford crowd as is customary during the final home match of the season.
While he was able to stand by his promise to earn three points at Brighton, it remains to be seen whether the same can be done against Manchester City at Wembley Stadium on May 25.
Even if United pull off an unlikely victory, there are major doubts regarding Ten Hag’s job position with INEOS on the lookout for the right heir.
Given his impressive performance at Brighton last season, De Zerbi has been punted as one of the frontrunners to replace Ten Hag at Old Trafford should the Dutch manager depart his role at the club.
While they ended this season in 11th place following a disappointing run of form, Brighton rose to sixth place last season, securing a spot in this season’s Europa League, where they made it to the Round of 16.
Now, it appears as if there is a possibility that the Italian manager could manage United in the future.
Talking to BBC, De Zerbi admitted that he doesn’t have another job lined up as of now while revealing that he would love to continue working in England.
“I hope to work in the Premier League again,” De Zerbi admitted. “I don’t know where or when. But it was an honour to work in the Premier League.”
United fans who have lost faith in Ten Hag may view this statement as a sign of hope that the 44 year old could become his successor.
No matter what the future holds, Ten Hag will no doubt be looking to secure a surprise win in the FA Cup final, handing United their second trophy in as many seasons.
Given that both of these victories would have been under Ten Hag, the Dutch manager may just yet convince Sir Jim Ratcliffe that he is worth keeping around for another year atleast.
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