Man United eyeing former Arsenal manager as Ruben Amorim replacement | OneFootball

Unai Emery emerges as candidate to replace Amorim at Man United

Emery’s growing link to Manchester United project

Manchester United’s hierarchy are once again exploring alternatives for their managerial future, and according to Fichajes, Unai Emery has emerged as a leading contender should Rúben Amorim’s tenure continue to falter. The report claims the Spanish coach is viewed internally as an “ideal profile” to reset the club’s direction, combining tactical order with elite-level experience across Europe.

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Emery’s reputation has risen considerably during his time at Aston Villa, where he has rebuilt a team that once battled inconsistency into genuine European contenders. His proven track record in continental competitions, coupled with his ability to manage squads with varying resources, has impressed decision-makers at Old Trafford.

As one United source reportedly told Fichajes, “Emery has demonstrated that he can build success with structure and precision, and his teams are always tactically disciplined.”

Amorim under pressure as results disappoint

Rúben Amorim remains in charge for now, but the sense of unease around his position continues to grow. United’s stuttering start to the campaign has placed him under increasing scrutiny, with the club’s board already reviewing contingency options in case results do not improve.

While Amorim has maintained a composed public stance, privately he acknowledges the mounting pressure. “I will continue to give everything to this project, but I know that at this club patience has limits,” he is quoted as saying.

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United’s recruitment department has reportedly drawn up a shortlist of potential successors, including Emery and Oliver Glasner. For many within the club’s corridors of power, Emery represents a manager capable of imposing order and consistency at a club often caught between eras.

Aston Villa reluctant but aware of interest

At Aston Villa, any potential approach would present a delicate dilemma. The Midlands club see Emery as central to their long-term plan and recently extended his contract to reinforce that commitment. His departure would disrupt a project built on stability, ambition and tactical identity.

According to Fichajes, “Villa value Emery as a symbol of progress, but they also know the prestige of Manchester United makes any approach difficult to ignore.” Those close to the Spaniard suggest he remains committed to Villa but would be “flattered” by the interest from Old Trafford, viewing it as one of football’s ultimate challenges.

Photo IMAGO

United’s leadership, aware of their own precarious position, are said to admire Emery’s ability to instil discipline and deliver improvement quickly. His experience at Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and Villarreal has only strengthened his case as a figure capable of navigating the immense expectations that come with managing at Old Trafford.

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Unai Emery is a proven organiser, someone capable of instilling control and tactical clarity, two qualities that have often been missing since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure.

Yet some fans might feel apprehensive. Emery’s time at Arsenal remains fresh in the Premier League memory, where despite some promising periods, he struggled to maintain cohesion and consistency over the long term. United supporters will wonder whether he can truly impose his philosophy at a club where expectation outweighs patience.

Still, the appeal is understandable. Emery has revitalised Aston Villa, turning them into a team that competes with energy, intelligence and purpose. His attention to detail and adaptability would offer a sharp contrast to the uncertainty currently surrounding Amorim.

If the rumours prove true, and United do make a move, supporters would hope that this time, the decision is guided less by short-term pressure and more by a clear footballing vision. Emery, with his calm authority and deep tactical roots, could provide exactly that.