Roberto De Zerbi: Brighton confirm Man United managerial target to leave club after Sunday clash | OneFootball

Brighton have officially confirmed that their manager and reported Manchester United target Roberto De Zerbi is set to leave the club after Sunday’s clash between the two sides.

United are set to travel to the Amex to take on Brighton on the final day of the season – a fixture Erik ten Hag’s men have to win to give themselves the best possible chance of clinching Europa League football.

De Zerbi is believed to be a manager on INEOS’ wishlist of possible Ten Hag replacements.

The Italian coach took over at the Seagulls following the departure of Graham Potter and oversaw their highest league finish in the 2022/23 season.

He also led Brighton to the round of 16 of the Europa League earlier this campaign before their elimination.

It’s not just results that have earned De Zerbi widespread praise and made him an object of INEOS’ desire. It’s also his fearless and desirable brand of football, which is possession-based and emphasises playing on the front foot.

His football philosophy demands that his team keep the ball through flawless passing while surgically cutting teams open – something he successfully implemented at Brighton and which made them one of the most exciting teams to watch.

A previous report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United are not the only party keen on possibly securing De Zerbi’s services. Bayern have also been mentioned to be admirers of his.

Back in March, the 44-year-old hinted that he could leave Brighton because there was no agreement in place over the club’s future direction.

Brighton have now confirmed in a bombshell statement that the United managerial target will leave after tomorrow’s game against United.

De Zerbi said, “I am very sad to be leaving Brighton, but I am very proud of what my players and staff have achieved with the support of everyone at the club and our amazing fans in the past two historical seasons.”

“We have agreed to end my time at Brighton so that the club and I can continue to work in the way that suits each of us best, following our own ideas and visions, as well as our work and human values.”

“I have really enjoyed an intense and challenging two years working in the Premier League, not least competing in four major competitions this season. Leaving now provides me with time to take a break before deciding on my future plans.”

If Ratcliffe and his associates are still intent on parting ways with Ten Hag and are seriously considering bringing in De Zerbi, then the door is wide open.

Even more advantageous for the Red Devils is they won’t have to negotiate a compensation package with their Premier League rivals.

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