Champions League Humiliation Puts De Zerbi at Risk — Manchester United Could Move This Summer

Manchester United are continuing their groundwork in the search for a potential new head coach next season, and recent reports suggest that one of their preferred targets, Roberto De Zerbi, may soon become available following mounting pressure at Marseille.

After parting ways with Amorim, United appointed club legend Michael Carrick as interim manager until the end of the season. Carrick made an immediate impact, guiding the team to consecutive victories over Manchester City and Arsenal, lifting United to fourth place in the Premier League. Unsurprisingly, the former midfielder is keen to remain in charge beyond this campaign.

Despite Carrick’s impressive start, United remain open to alternative options. De Zerbi is a prominent name on the club’s shortlist, having built a strong reputation during his time at Brighton, where he transformed a relegation-threatened side into European contenders. He carried that momentum into France, leading Marseille to a second-place finish in Ligue 1 last season, with the club currently sitting third.

However, De Zerbi’s position has come under serious threat following a disastrous Champions League exit. According to RMC Sport, Marseille’s 3-0 defeat to Club Brugge in the final group match resulted in elimination from Europe’s elite competition, placing immense pressure on the Italian coach.

Reports indicate that De Zerbi is now at real risk of dismissal. During Marseille’s training camp in Clairefontaine ahead of Saturday’s fixture against Paris FC, he was notably absent from training, further fueling speculation that his departure could be imminent.

Previously, TEAMtalk reported that De Zerbi is eager to take the Manchester United job should the opportunity arise, and that interest is mutual. United’s hierarchy are said to hold him in very high regard, with De Zerbi having already been interviewed by the club in 2024 when alternatives to Erik ten Hag were being considered.

With De Zerbi potentially becoming a free agent, the situation could represent a major opportunity for United. If Marseille terminate his contract, United would not be required to pay a compensation fee, needing only to agree on personal terms. That scenario could see De Zerbi replace Carrick and take charge at Old Trafford as early as this summer.