United are set to look close to home for their first ever technical director
Manchester United’s search for their first ever technical director appears to be drawing to a close with current assistant manager Mike Phelan reportedly in line for the role.
Phelan, 56, returned to the club in December to work as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s assistant manager – the same position he held during the last five years of Sir Alex Ferguson’s time in charge.
According to James Ducker in The Telegraph, Phelan has held discussions with executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward about taking on the technical director position, which he could accept while continuing to work as part of Solskjaer’s coaching staff.
United have been rumoured to be looking to appoint a technical director to work alongside the manager for some time. Phelan’s excellent working relationship with Solskjaer ticks a box, as does the fact he has experience of the culture of the club – both as a member of the coaching set-up and as a former United player.
Should his appointment be confirmed, the report also adds that Michael Carrick, who joined the coaching staff under Jose Mourinho after retiring at the end of last season, could be promoted to United’s assistant manager ahead of next season.
United are expected to embark on a squad overhaul over the summer following another disappointing season. Though they can still secure Champions League qualification, a humiliating defeat at the hands of Everton on Sunday damaged their hopes of a top-four finish.
It now looks increasingly likely that United will have to win all of their remaining games – including tough home games with title-chasing Manchester City and top four rivals Chelsea – if they are to stand a chance of competing in European football’s top club competition next season.
