Man Utd considered THREE alternatives to Ruben Amorim before decision on new manager

Manchester United considered a number of managers - including the likes of Xavi and Max Allegri - before they eventually opted to pursue Sporting Lisbon's Ruben Amorim

Manchester United weighed up pursuing four managers before they eventually decided on Ruben Amorim - with Massimiliano Allegri also among those on their shortlist.

The Red Devils are looking for a new manager after sacking Erik ten Hag on Monday with INEOS moving quick to source a replacement. Sir Jim Ratcliffe will have to appoint his first manager since buying into the club and is now going after Amorim.

The young Portuguese manager has been a huge success at Sporting Lisbon - winning numerous league titles and domestic cups. United are currently negotiating with the club regarding his release clause and notice period.

Allegri is among those that the Manchester outfit also considered pursuing. The Italian has been out of work since leaving Juventus in the summer and has a proven track record of managing major European clubs, winning honours and excelling in Europe.

The Athletic also reports that Xavi was considered as a replacement for Ten Hag. The Spaniard is another man who is out of a job having left Barcelona in the summer. During his spell in La Liga he claimed the title and his style of play would've been another attraction, but he wasn't viewed seriously.

Edin Terzic was the third manager - also out of a job - who the United hierarchy considered pursuing. He took an unfancied Borussia Dortmund side to the final of the Champions League, downing the likes of PSG.

United though had the opportunity to take Thomas Tuchel when he was out a job but opted against doing so. The German is no longer on the market having taken the England job.

The Old Trafford hierarchy wanted to have already identified their ideal candidates when they did eventually rid of Ten Hag - and took less than 24 hours before they moved for the Sporting manager, who himself hasn't confirmed what he plans to do.

He said on Tuesday night: "Nothing is decided yet. I don't know if it's the farewell game or not." Amorim added: "There is interest from Manchester United, there is the payment of a contract term and when I have something more solid, I will come here and tell my position, because it will be my choice. While I don't have everything decided, for one side or the other, I can't tell much more".

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