Ferdinand backs De Zerbi as Manchester United’s real coach, with Carrick holding the reins for now

What Ferdinand called the 'real' United boss

The Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand named the 'real' manager who deserves a permanent deal to lead the Red Devils from next season. He argues United should pursue Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi to replace Ruben Amorim on a permanent basis.

Carrick’s interim role and other contenders

Manchester United officially announced on Tuesday the appointment of Michael Carrick as manager until the end of the current season.

Ferdinand went beyond discussing the temporary appointment of his former colleague, stating that United should pursue hiring Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi to replace Ruben Amorim, on a permanent basis.

The former international defender added that the Italian boss is a “real coach” who would bring the required enthusiasm and passion to United, and he also has strong tactical flexibility. A true coach, he argued, makes players work and delivers their best performances.

Ferdinand’s recommendations came in a video on his personal YouTube channel, where he stressed the need to pick an “available” or “signable” coach right now, with De Zerbi preferred over other big names like Tuchel.

He also admitted that Tuchel remains one of his top choices, but after De Zerbi.

Ferdinand added: “(De Zerbi) is someone who has shown he can train the team firmly, manage the atmosphere off the pitch, coach individuals, develop players, and implement a real footballing way of playing—exactly the kind of leader you need with a strong, unmistakable identity.”

Punchline: If De Zerbi’s tactics were a sniper rifle, the target would be goals, not excuses.

Punchline: And if United win with him, the trophy might just sign autographs on the way out the door.