Manchester United Eye Terzic as Potential Successor to Ten Hag | OneFootball

Manchester United Reportedly Eye Terzic as Possible Successor to Ten Hag

With Erik ten Hag’s position under mounting scrutiny at Old Trafford, Manchester United are reportedly considering Edin Terzic, the former Borussia Dortmund manager, as a potential replacement. In what some may see as an unexpected move, United’s ownership has added Terzic to a shortlist of managers as they weigh up their options. This revelation comes amid United’s troubling start to the Premier League season, currently languishing in 14th place – their worst start in the league to date. The Standard reports that “Terzic has emerged as a shock name on the club’s shortlist to replace Ten Hag.”

Surprising Contender

In the world of football management, few anticipated Terzic’s name would be linked to the United job. Known for his adept tactical approach and a commitment to developing young talent, Terzic guided Dortmund to the Champions League final last season. Although the final ended in a 2-0 loss to Real Madrid, it was a clear statement of intent from Terzic and his team, who continue to contend with German powerhouses Bayern Munich on a regular basis. While his tenure in Dortmund saw ups and downs, Terzic also narrowly missed out on the Bundesliga title during the 2022-23 season – only conceding the title to Bayern on goal difference.

It’s no secret that Terzic has developed a unique profile among European managers. Known for his tactical adaptability, he blends the structured approach that German football often demands with an underlying commitment to attacking, expansive football – something that resonates well with the historical ethos at Old Trafford.

Photo: IMAGO

Terzic’s Managerial Journey

Terzic’s path to management was one of determination and calculated progression. A former forward in the German lower leagues, he worked his way up through various roles, including scouting and youth coaching. His time at Borussia Dortmund began in the youth academy, where he honed his coaching acumen under the tutelage of Jürgen Klopp. Terzic also served as an assistant coach to Slaven Bilic at Besiktas and West Ham, a stint that provided invaluable experience in understanding the challenges of coaching at the top level. He then completed his coaching badges in England, a move that reportedly led him to build a friendship with Graham Potter and establish connections with former United players, including Nicky Butt and Nemanja Vidic.

Such a diverse background has endowed Terzic with a well-rounded approach to management. His coaching philosophy reflects a fusion of German efficiency and Premier League intensity, attributes that could align well with Manchester United’s current needs as they navigate a period of transition.

Ten Hag’s Future at Manchester United

Erik ten Hag has certainly experienced a turbulent start to his tenure, and with United sitting uncomfortably in the lower half of the table, questions over his leadership have inevitably surfaced. Sir Jim Ratcliffe, United’s co-owner, recently spent several hours in discussions with United’s executive committee, indicating that a period of reflection and review may be underway.

While Ten Hag’s tactical approach has garnered praise for its emphasis on structure and discipline, results have not consistently followed. The season has been one of defensive frailties and struggles to convert chances. With United’s storied legacy hanging in the balance, speculation around potential managerial changes only grows.

Photo: IMAGO

Why Terzic?

Terzic offers an enticing prospect for a club like Manchester United, especially given his youthful yet accomplished profile. The 41-year-old’s track record with Dortmund demonstrates a commitment to blending experienced heads with younger talents – an aspect United could benefit from as they continue to rely on emerging players like Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Højlund.

Moreover, Terzic’s rapport with Klopp and his familiarity with the English game provide him with a unique vantage point, one that not all foreign managers enjoy when stepping into the Premier League. His connections with notable figures in the football world, including Potter, Butt, and Vidic, might also suggest that he would adapt well to the cultural expectations of a club like Manchester United.

United fans may be divided about Terzic’s candidacy, given his relative lack of experience compared to some of the other big names in European football. However, if the Red Devils are indeed exploring this option, it indicates a willingness to move towards a fresher, perhaps more innovative approach to management.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

The link to Edin Terzic might inspire mixed emotions. On one hand, he brings a fresh, exciting approach that aligns with the pressing game many United supporters crave. His ability to work with young talent, as seen at Dortmund, could be instrumental in moulding United’s emerging stars into key players. Additionally, his familiarity with the English game, having worked closely with figures like Klopp and Bilic, could be beneficial in adapting to the unique demands of Premier League football.

On the other hand, some fans might question whether Terzic, still relatively untested in terms of major league experience, is the right choice to lead a club of United’s stature. His successes are noteworthy, but the Premier League has humbled many a European manager. United fans have seen enough turmoil in recent years, and stability is as valued as ambition. Whether Terzic could deliver that is a question that may keep supporters debating if he is indeed the right man for the job.