The next Manchester United manager has been named by artificial intelligence (AI), in a context where the selected coach was highly regarded by Jurgen Klopp.
The managerial position at Manchester United has become a truly “hot seat” since Sir Alex Ferguson retired. Since 2013, the Red Devils have gone through 11 different managers, including interim and caretaker roles, yet have never come close to reclaiming the Premier League or Champions League titles at Old Trafford.
Following the decision to dismiss Ruben Amorim, the English club has once again had to “restart” their project to regain glory. The first and most crucial step remains appointing a long-term head coach.
Many names have been linked to this position, such as Gareth Southgate, Graham Potter, and Thomas Tuchel. However, according to AI’s assessment, only one candidate meets all the criteria. Specifically, when asked who is the best fit to succeed Amorim and awaken the “sleeping giant,” AI responded: Julian Nagelsmann, head coach of the German national team.
The reason AI ranks Nagelsmann at the top of Manchester United’s candidate list is his experience working at a “giant” club like Bayern Munich, which is seen as a key factor giving him the confidence to handle strong egos and immense pressure.
However, Nagelsmann’s current contract with the German national team, valid until EURO 2028, might pose a barrier. Previously, he coached Hoffenheim and RB Leipzig, with his time at Hoffenheim clearly demonstrating his ability to build a team.
When Nagelsmann was appointed in February 2016, Hoffenheim was 17th in the Bundesliga and facing relegation. Under his leadership, the club avoided relegation and just one year later qualified for the Champions League for the first time in their history.
Given MU’s current situation, they need a coach who can gradually build a squad capable of competing in Europe and advancing far, something Nagelsmann proved by leading RB Leipzig to the Champions League semifinals.
During 14 months at Old Trafford, Amorim’s rigidity with a three-center-back system caused significant controversy. According to AI, Nagelsmann would not face similar issues due to his tactical flexibility. The German coach can deploy both three- and four-defender formations, adapting to the available squad rather than forcing the team into an unsuitable system.
Whether MU’s leadership is truly targeting Nagelsmann remains to be seen. However, according to AI’s evaluation, the German strategist is the ideal choice to revive the “Red Devils” after yet another managerial change.