Next Man Utd Manager Odds: Who Will Take the Hot Seat at Old Trafford?

Few topics spark as much debate as the next Man Utd manager odds.

Whenever results dip or tension rises at Old Trafford, the rumour mill goes into overdrive — and the bookmakers’ markets tell their own story.

With Ruben Amorim under growing pressure, speculation is once again mounting over who might be next in the dugout.

The betting odds reveal a fascinating mix of contenders: tactical thinkers like Oliver Glasner, steady leaders such as Gareth Southgate, and global icons including Zinedine Zidane.

Each brings a different vision for how United could rebuild and rediscover their winning DNA.

But what do those odds really mean? Are the bookies reflecting genuine inside whispers, or just following fan sentiment and social media chatter?

In this article, we break down the latest prices, profile every leading contender, and analyse who might truly fit the bill.

Whether you’re a punter, a Red Devils fan, or just love football drama, this is your ultimate guide to the next Man Utd manager odds — and the race for one of the most demanding jobs in world football.

Setting the stage: the Amorim era (and its pressures)

As of now, Ruben Amorim sits in the United hot seat, having been appointed in November 2024. His arrival followed the departure of Erik ten Hag, and expectations were understandably high. 

But early signs suggest Amorim is under pressure. The team’s results have been patchy, and rumors of restlessness from fans and commentators are already swirling.

In this atmosphere, the next Man Utd manager odds come into sharper focus — not as idle musing, but as part of the unfolding drama at Old Trafford.

Given that kind of backdrop, let’s now examine who the bookmakers are putting forward as potential successors.

The Current Odds

The betting markets are constantly shifting, but as things stand, a few clear frontrunners have emerged in the next Man Utd manager odds.

Oliver Glasner currently leads the way, with most bookmakers pricing him between 2/1 and 7/2, reflecting a growing belief that he could be the man to take charge if a change happens at Old Trafford.

Close behind are former England boss Gareth Southgate and former United midfielder Michael Carrick, both considered realistic contenders depending on how the situation unfolds.

A few high-profile names, like Zinedine Zidane and Mauricio Pochettino, remain in the running but at much longer prices — perhaps a sign that their availability or willingness to take the job is uncertain.

Here’s how the current market looks:

Next Man Utd Manager Odds (Current Market Range)

Manager	Worst Odds	Best Odds
Oliver Glasner	2/1	7/2
Gareth Southgate	5/1	8/1
Xavi Hernandez	8/1	10/1
Mauricio Pochettino	7/1	12/1
Zinedine Zidane	15/2	33/1
Unai Emery	10/1	12/1
Michael Carrick	6/1	16/1
Marco Silva	10/1	12/1
Odds are subject to change. Please check your bookmaker for the latest prices.

What stands out from the table is how tight the top of the market is.

Glasner’s price suggests bookmakers see him as a strong favourite, but the fact that Southgate, Carrick, and even Pochettino remain relatively short shows there’s still plenty of uncertainty about the direction United might take next.

Meanwhile, Zidane’s odds drifting as far as 33/1 indicate that a romantic move for the former Real Madrid coach looks highly unlikely — at least for now.

Still, these markets have been known to turn on their head overnight, especially when results or rumours start flying around.

In short, the next Man Utd manager odds paint a picture of a market that’s very much alive — and a fanbase braced for more drama before any final decision is made.

The Leading Contenders and their Chances

Let’s take a look at now at the leading contenders and analyse their chances of landing the Old Trafford hot seat after Amorim.

There is no shortage of options – but each contender has their strengths and weaknesses and it will not be an easy choice for the club’s board.

Oliver Glasner

Summary

• Current Club: Crystal Palace
• Managerial Honours: Austrian Bundesliga (LASK), DFB-Pokal (Eintracht Frankfurt), FA Cup (Crystal Palace)
• Odds at Start of 2025–26 Season: 4/1
• Current Odds: 2/1 – 7/2

Past Experience

Oliver Glasner built his reputation in Austria, guiding LASK to an impressive league title before moving to Germany.

His tactical intelligence and calm demeanour shone at Eintracht Frankfurt, where he masterminded their DFB-Pokal win and a memorable Europa League campaign.

Glasner’s sides have always been well-drilled, structured, and adaptable — traits that appeal to top clubs looking for modern, progressive football.

Current Job Position

Since taking over Crystal Palace, Glasner has transformed the club’s playing style.

His FA Cup triumph with the Eagles has been seen as a minor miracle — evidence of his ability to get the best out of limited resources.

He’s admired across Europe for creating balance between attacking freedom and defensive discipline, something United have been lacking in recent seasons.

Suitability for the Man Utd Role

Glasner’s odds leading the next Man Utd manager market make perfect sense.

He represents a blend of tactical nous, professionalism, and quiet authority — similar in profile to Erik ten Hag when he was hired.

The challenge would be Palace’s reluctance to let him go mid-season and whether he could command the dressing room at a club of United’s scale.

Still, his rise from outsider to frontrunner shows just how much faith the market has in him.

Chances

Glasner has quickly risen as the market frontrunner in the next Man Utd manager odds.

His strong recent track record — notably turning Palace into a competitive side and winning the FA Cup — gives him serious credibility. (He’s also added the Community Shield to his résumé this season.)

Because there’s no solid public record of where he was priced at the start of 2025–26, it’s harder to track his odds trajectory.

But his current 2/1 to 7/2 range suggests bookmakers view him as a serious candidate. At those odds, he’s no mere speculative pick — he’s very much in the mix.

One thing working in his favour is continuity: his style, reputation for development, and momentum give him a smoother path into a top job.

But he also faces obstacles: negotiating Palace’s compensation demands, and the risk that losing him mid-season could destabilise them.

In short — he’s the one to watch, and his current odds reflect that market confidence.

Sir Gareth Southgate

Summary:

• Current Club: None (recently England manager; currently a free agent)
• Managerial Honours: Euro Finals x2, World Cup semi-final (with England)
• Odds at Start of 2025–26 Season: 5/1
• Current Odds: 5/1 – 8/1

Past Experience

Gareth Southgate’s reputation was built on transforming the England national team’s culture.

He restored belief, improved squad harmony, and guided England to a World Cup semi-final and two Euros finals — achievements that many modern United managers would envy.

Current Job Position

Now a free agent, Southgate is in a position of flexibility.

He has stated he’s open to returning to club management if the right opportunity arises, and United could be exactly that — a historic challenge with global reach.

However, after years in international management, the week-to-week grind of club football might take some readjustment.

Suitability for the Man Utd Role

Southgate’s strengths lie in leadership, communication, and emotional intelligence — all qualities United desperately need.

He’s unlikely to overhaul tactics dramatically, but his man-management could stabilise a fractured squad.

The main concern is his lack of recent club experience, which explains why his odds remain a touch longer. Still, at 5/1 to 8/1, he’s a respected contender and far from a token inclusion.

Chances

Southgate is an interesting bet in the next Man Utd manager odds market.

His pedigree is more about command and stability than explosive club results.

His reputation managing England gives him gravitas and experience, though he lacks recent club-level exposure.

At 5/1 to 8/1, he’s priced as a credible dark horse. Those odds suggest bookies see some risk — maybe doubts over whether he’d willingly return to a harsh club environment.

But his name brings weight, and in a tight market, that matters.

If the club wants someone steady, trusted, and with fewer “learning curve” concerns, Southgate fits nicely.

His odds reflect that he may not be the first choice but is firmly in the conversation.

Xavi Hernández

Summary

• Current Club: Unattached (recently Barcelona head coach)
• Managerial Honours: La Liga, Supercopa de España (with Barcelona), Qatari Stars League, Qatari Cup (Al Sadd)
• Odds at Start of 2025–26 Season: 12/1
• Current Odds: 8/1 – 10/1

Past Experience

Xavi’s managerial journey began in Qatar before he returned to his beloved Barcelona.

Under his guidance, Barça clinched La Liga and the Supercopa, re-establishing themselves as a disciplined, possession-focused side.

His commitment to positional play and high-intensity pressing mirrors his philosophy as a player — total control through intelligent movement.

Current Job Position

Currently unattached, Xavi is taking a breather from management after a turbulent exit from Barcelona.

He remains a name synonymous with tactical purity and attacking football.

His availability, combined with his global profile, keeps him relevant in top-job discussions — including the next Man Utd manager odds market.

Suitability for the Man Utd Role

In theory, Xavi’s footballing ideals fit the “United DNA” perfectly — attacking intent, youth development, and control.

However, implementing such a philosophy in the Premier League, with its intensity and physicality, would be a massive adjustment.

His longer odds (8/1 to 10/1) reflect both intrigue and caution.

If United’s hierarchy wants to make a statement of intent, Xavi would certainly be that.

Chances

Xavi’s inclusion in the next Man Utd manager odds suggests bookmakers are keeping the door open for big names from Europe.

His style, footballing pedigree, and reputation as a ball-possession coach make him an attractive option — especially if United want to move decisively to a more possession-based identity.

However, those relatively longer odds (8/1 – 10/1) reflect several challenges: his likely desirability elsewhere, his willingness to take on a job with heavy pressure, plus logistical and contractual barriers.

He’s less a front-runner and more a visionary alternative.

If the preferred options falter or if United’s decision leans toward a statement move, Xavi could gain traction.

Mauricio Pochettino

Summary

• Current Club: United States national team
• Managerial Honours: Ligue 1, French Cup (with PSG), 
• Odds at Start of 2025–26 Season: 8/1
• Current Odds: 7/1 – 12/1

Past Experience

Few managers have been linked to Manchester United as persistently as Mauricio Pochettino.

From his impressive tenure at Tottenham — where he guided them to a Champions League final — to his brief but trophy-winning spell at PSG, Pochettino has long been viewed as a “nearly man” who deserves another shot at a European giant.

Current Job Position

Pochettino currently leads the U.S. national team, focusing on youth development and long-term project building.

While it’s an intriguing role, it lacks the competitive edge of club football. A Premier League return could tempt him back, though compensation and timing might complicate any move.

Suitability for the Man Utd Role

Pochettino ticks nearly every box United’s board could want — experience in England, attacking football, and a reputation for improving players.

However, questions linger over whether he can consistently win at the very top.

His odds (7/1 to 12/1) suggest he’s a strong outsider — someone who might quickly climb the betting if United signals interest.

Commentary & perspective

Pochettino is a known quantity — someone who has been available and ambitious in recent windows.

His current role managing the U.S. national team gives him flexibility, though taking a club role mid-cycle is a challenge.

At 7/1 to 12/1, he’s priced as a serious contender but not a favourite.

The risk-reward is clear: if he wants to return to club football, United is a marquee destination; but he also must wrestle with contract terms, exit clauses, and whether his recent track record justifies the leap.

If the club wants someone who’s proven, respected, and willing to take pressure, he’s a viable option. His odds reflect respect, but also caution.

Zinedine Zidane

Summary

• Current Club: None (not currently managing)
• Managerial Honours: La Liga x2, Champions League x3, (with Real Madrid)
• Odds at Start of 2025–26 Season: 16/1
• Current Odds: 15/2 – 33/1

Past Experience

One of the most successful managers of his era, Zinedine Zidane’s record speaks for itself.

His time at Real Madrid yielded back-to-back Champions League triumphs and a domestic resurgence built on respect, man-management, and star quality.

Current Job Position

Zidane has been out of work since leaving Real Madrid in 2021, reportedly waiting for the right project.

He’s been linked with jobs across Europe — including PSG, Juventus, and France — but none have materialised.

His continued absence makes him both an enticing and enigmatic option.

Suitability for the Man Utd Role

Zidane’s presence would instantly lift morale and prestige at Old Trafford, but the likelihood of him taking the job remains slim.

He’s known to be selective and reportedly prefers roles in France or Spain. His odds (ranging wildly from 15/2 to 33/1) reflect that — a dream scenario rather than a probable one.

Still, for fans craving stardust, Zidane remains the ultimate “what if.”

Chances

Zidane is the romantic pick in the next Man Utd manager odds market. His trophy haul, superstar status, and aura make him tempting as a headline appointment.

But reality bites: he hasn’t been in day-to-day club management recently, and stepping back into such a high stakes role would be a significant commitment.

The wide range of odds (15/2 up to 33/1) reflects this contradiction — big upside, big uncertainty.

Bookmakers are hedging that he might not be interested or available, but keeping him in the frame just in case.

In effect, Zidane is a long shot with splash appeal. He’s more headline than favourite, but markets often price that allure.

Unai Emery

Summary

• Current Club: Aston Villa
• Managerial Honours: UEFA Europa League winner x4 (with Sevilla, 2013-14, 2014-15, 2015-16 & with Villarreal, 2020-21), Ligue 1 (2017-18), French Cup x2, French League Cup x2, (all with PSG)
• Odds at Start of 2025–26 Season: 12/1
• Current Odds: 10/1 – 12/1

Past Experience

Unai Emery’s CV is one of the most decorated in European football.

He built his reputation as a master tactician at Sevilla, winning three Europa Leagues, before spells at PSG, Arsenal, and Villarreal cemented his status as a meticulous, detail-oriented coach.

Current Job Position

Now thriving at Aston Villa, Emery has transformed the club into European contenders, earning plaudits for his organised, high-pressing football and strategic squad management.

He’s clearly in his managerial prime — and it’s easy to see why his name keeps coming up when big jobs open up.

Suitability for the Man Utd Role

Emery would bring structure, strategy, and discipline — exactly what United have lacked. However, his understated personality may not fit the “superstar” mould the club tends to chase.

His odds (10/1 to 12/1) show bookmakers respect his credentials but doubt his availability or appeal to United’s hierarchy.

Chances

Emery is a safe, solid choice. His track record in European competitions and experience managing in top leagues make him a credible mid-tier candidate.

His odds of 10/1 to 12/1 reflect that — not flashy, not disqualified, but not leading the market either.

Emery’s challenge would be aligning with United’s expectations and rebuilding their identity. If the top names stall, Emery could emerge as a stabilising, competent choice.

He’s a candidate many would back quietly rather than loudly — a fallback rather than a headline grab.

Michael Carrick

Summary

• Current Club: None 
• Managerial Honours: None at head coach level (has experience as assistant and caretaker)
• Odds at Start of 2025–26 Season: 8/1
• Current Odds: 6/1 – 16/1

Past Experience

A Manchester United legend as a player, Michael Carrick has transitioned impressively into management.

His calm, analytical approach and intelligent football mind have drawn comparisons to Gareth Southgate and Mikel Arteta.

At Middlesbrough, he’s been praised for implementing a progressive, possession-based system.

Current Job Position

Carrick continues to enhance his reputation in the Championship, guiding Middlesbrough to strong performances and developing a clear tactical identity.

He’s regarded as one of England’s most promising young coaches — but still early in his managerial career.

Suitability for the Man Utd Role

Carrick’s connection to United makes him an emotional choice, but the timing might be too soon.

His odds (6/1 to 16/1) show that he’s viewed as a potential caretaker or long-term project rather than a short-term saviour.

If United ever embrace a “project manager” mindset, Carrick could be the man — but not yet.

Chances

Carrick is a sentimental favourite. His deep ties to Manchester United, familiarity with the club culture and infrastructure, and history as a coach/assistant make him a plausible internal option.

But his lack of top-level managerial honours works against him in betting markets, which demand proof.

His wide odds range (6/1 to 16/1) shows that he’s considered more of a dark horse — if things go awry, he might be the fallback. But as a long-term appointment, many see risk.

If United’s board wants someone who knows the club from the inside and can steady the ship, Carrick may rise.

His odds currently reflect cautious consideration.

Marco Silva

Summary

• Current Club: Fulham
• Managerial Honours: EFL Championship (with Fulham), Greek Super League (with Olympiacos), Portuguese League Cup (with Sporting Lisbon)
• Odds at Start of 2025–26 Season: 10/1
• Current Odds: 10/1 – 12/1

Past Experience

Marco Silva has managed across England and Europe, earning a reputation for attacking football and man-management.

His stints at Hull, Watford, Everton, and now Fulham have showcased his adaptability and ability to get the best from mid-table squads.

Current Job Position

Still at Fulham, Silva continues to overachieve relative to resources.

His teams play entertaining, front-foot football — a quality that has not gone unnoticed.

Suitability for the Man Utd Role

Silva is a name often underestimated in these markets.

His odds (10/1 to 12/1) reflect his outsider status, but also his potential to climb if United look for a younger, progressive manager.

While it might seem a stretch, his work at Fulham proves he can instil identity and discipline — qualities United badly need.

Chances

Silva is perhaps the most under-the-radar name in the table. His odds of 10/1 to 12/1 suggest bookmakers are treating him as a credible backup — someone who might not be front of mind but worth including.

Silva has shown capability at clubs like Fulham, Everton, and others — enough to be trusted in mid-tier contexts.

But stepping into the pressure cooker of United is another level.

He may gain if the lead names falter or if United wants to gamble on a rising name with potential upside.

His odds are long enough to reflect his outsider status but short enough to keep him in view.

Who will be the Next Man Utd Manager? What the odds tell us

Looking across the market, it’s easy to see why the next Man Utd manager odds are so fluid — and why they’ve become one of the most closely watched betting markets in football right now.

The bookmakers are essentially pricing up not just the next appointment, but the direction Manchester United as a club might take next.

At the top end, Oliver Glasner stands out as the pragmatic favourite.

His recent achievements at Crystal Palace — building a disciplined, hard-working side capable of winning silverware — make him a sensible, modern candidate.

He represents a footballing evolution rather than a revolution, which may appeal to United’s hierarchy after several years of upheaval.

But there are still question marks: can he handle the global scrutiny that comes with Old Trafford, and would Palace even release him mid-season?

Behind him, Gareth Southgate and Mauricio Pochettino sit in that second tier of contenders — names that promise stability and leadership, if not fireworks.

Southgate’s calmness and man-management could be exactly what the dressing room needs, while Pochettino’s familiarity with the Premier League and focus on developing young players would tick many of the same boxes.

Both would likely appeal to a board desperate to bring back unity and discipline after another turbulent campaign.

Further down, the market opens up into what you might call the “high-risk, high-reward” zone. Zinedine Zidane, Michael Carrick, and Marco Silva all represent very different approaches to rebuilding United’s identity.

Zidane offers glamour and global prestige but remains an outside shot, mainly due to doubts about his willingness to manage in England.

Carrick, meanwhile, is the sentimental choice — a link to the club’s golden years who could, in time, grow into the job.

Silva sits somewhere in between, a manager who’s quietly impressed in the Premier League and could be a shrewd appointment if United were willing to think outside the box.

Then there’s Unai Emery, the serial winner who never seems far from contention whenever a big job comes up.

His tactical intelligence and European pedigree would make him a solid, if slightly unglamorous, choice.

The problem for United might be convincing him to leave a thriving Aston Villa project where he’s in complete control.

What’s striking about the next Man Utd manager odds isn’t just who’s leading the betting, but how little separates so many of the contenders.

The market reflects a club still in flux — one that hasn’t yet decided whether it wants to prioritise long-term stability, instant results, or a complete reset of its footballing identity.

Ultimately, these odds tell a story of uncertainty, opportunity, and enormous pressure. Managing Manchester United remains one of the toughest jobs in world football — a role where expectations are sky-high, scrutiny is relentless, and every decision is magnified.

For whichever manager eventually takes the reins, the challenge will be about far more than tactics or transfers. It will be about restoring belief in a club still searching for a new era of dominance.

Until then, the market will continue to ebb and flow — with odds tightening and drifting as rumours swirl, results swing, and the next chapter in United’s long-running managerial saga slowly takes shape.