New name added to Man Utd Erik ten Hag replacement shortlist as Tyrell Malacia update provided

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Manchester United are back in action in less than 72 hours when they host Brentford on Saturday. Erik ten Hag's side have endured a dismal start to the season, winning just three of their opening 10 matches.

They started the season with a 1-0 win at home to Fulham, but followed that up with back-to-back defeats against Brighton and Liverpool. Consecutive victories over Southampton and Barnsley resurrected the feel-good factor, but United have since failed to win any of their last five matches.

That has put Ten Hag under pressure, but he and United have the perfect chance to respond with a home game against the Bees this weekend. Thomas Frank's side have made a mixed start, winning three of their first seven Premier League fixtures but beat Wolves 5-3 last time out. Here is the latest news from Old Trafford.

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New name on Ten Hag shortlist

According to Turkish journalist Salim Manav, United have 'added' Turkey head coach Vincenzo Montella to a list of potential candidates to succeed Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford.

The Italian, who turned 50 in June, has been in charge of the Turkish national team since September last year. He led Turkey to the quarter-finals of the European Championship in the summer.

MEN says: Montella has made a positive start to life as Turkey boss after taking over in September 2023 and helped Turkey to the quarter-final of Euro 2024 before losing out to the Netherlands. Turkey were a real threat at the Euros and played some attractive, attacking football at times - something that could appease the United fans.

However, his lack of experience at the very top level and even in the Premier League would concern me. Adding to this, he hasn't got the best managerial record overall, having failed at jobs with AC Milan, Sevilla and Sampdoria. His best spell as a manager came in his first stint at Fiorentina.

Malacia injury update

Tyrell Malacia is reportedly 'just weeks away' from a return to action. According to Dutch media outlet Voetbal International, Malacia is 'very close' to playing again and could even return to action by the end of October. United are being cautious with Malacia, but the report continues that if his return is not at the end of this month then it should happen in early November.

MEN says: Malacia's return should provide a massive boost for United, who are currently without a senior left-back with Luke Shaw also out injured. Diogo Dalot has had to cover in that position at the start of the season, with new signing Noussair Mazraoui at right-back.

But with Mazraoui expected to be out for the next couple of weeks, one of Lisandro Martinez, Victor Lindelof or Jonny Evans is set to deputise at left-back. Although Malacia won't be back to face Brentford this weekend, his return will be much welcomed by Ten Hag.

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