Former Manchester City manager believes he could replace Ruben Amorim at Manchester United | OneFootball

A legendary former manager of Manchester City believes he could be in contention for the Manchester United job, should it become available in the coming months.

Roberto Mancini, who guided City to their historic first Premier League title back in 2012, has been out of work since stepping down as head coach of the Saudi Arabian national team in 2024 but remains highly regarded across Europe’s elite circles.

During his time at the Etihad Stadium, Mancini built the foundation for City’s modern success, establishing a winning mentality and overseeing a squad transition that included the arrivals of players such as Yaya Touré, Sergio Agüero, and David Silva.

His ability to deliver trophies under intense pressure made him a key figure in Manchester City’s rise to dominance, a legacy still respected by many around the club today. Since leaving, the 60-year-old has enjoyed further success on the international stage, guiding Italy to glory at Euro 2020 before a surprise exit from the Azzurri in 2023.

His brief spell in Saudi Arabia was seen largely as an opportunity to explore a new challenge rather than the beginning of a long-term project, and speculation surrounding his next move has intensified in recent months.

According to the information of The Sun’s Martin Blackburn, Roberto Mancini has now told friends he believes he could be in contention should Manchester United fire Ruben Amorim.

Like United investor Sir Jim Ratcliffe, it is highlighted that the 60-year-old Italian has a base in the South of France and is believed to have met the Ineos boss at ‘various social functions’ in the past.

With United’s season under scrutiny and Amorim’s long-term position uncertain, Roberto Mancini’s name adds further intrigue to the potential managerial merry-go-round ahead of 2026.

United’s new ownership structure has already prompted discussions about future direction and leadership, and Mancini’s proven record of instilling discipline and success could appeal to the footballing vision among senior figures in Trafford.

However, any such move would come with heavy scrutiny from both sides of Manchester. Mancini remains a popular figure among City supporters, and a switch to the red half of the city would undoubtedly stir emotions given his lasting connection with the Etihad Stadium club.

Still, the Italian has never shied away from bold decisions throughout his career and has openly expressed a desire to manage at the top level once more. For now, Mancini’s future remains uncertain, but his belief that he could land one of football’s most high-profile jobs has reignited discussion around his return to club management.

Should Manchester United’s situation with Ruben Amorim deteriorate further, the door could open for one of Manchester City’s most iconic managers to make a dramatic and somewhat controversial Premier League comeback.