Manchester United are looking for a permanent solution on the bench after firing Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Micheal Carrick has taken over as the caretaker manager for the time being. The Red Devils have inquired about multiple options without finding the right name thus far.
According to Christian Falk of Bild, Manchester United contacted Roberto Mancini for their opening. However, the Italy coach turned it down as he is focused on qualifying for the World Cup. The Azzurri will have to go through the playoff next March after finishing second behind Switzerland in their group.
Mancini had hinted about his desire to return at the helm of a club after Qatar 2022. However, he then signed an extension with the Italian FA until 2026. The call by Manchester United arrived too soon, as he still has unfinished business with the national team.
Mancini is the second Italian gaffer to be in the mix for the Red Devils job. The English clubs had reportedly held talks with Antonio Conte a few weeks back when Solskjaer was on the hot seat. The negotiations hit a snag, and former Inter boss was then appointed by Tottenham.
Manchester United will have to look elsewhere to find their next manager. They have been trying to land a big name like Mauricio Pochettino, Zinedine Zidane, Julen Lopetegui, Brendan Rodgers, and Unai Emery. There does not appear to be a clear frontrunner at this stage. Former Roma coach Rudi Garcia is a candidate to guide them until the end of the season, The National suggests.