Former Manchester City boss believes he is in the running to replace Ruben Amorim if latter is sacked by Manchester United

Former Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini reportedly believes he is in contention to take over at Manchester United if current boss Ruben Amorim is sacked. According to The Sun, Mancini has told a friend that he sees himself as a potential candidate should United decide to make a managerial change.

Pressure around Ruben Amorim has been building rapidly. He was appointed by Manchester United in October last year, but his first season ended without a trophy and with the club finishing 15th in the Premier League. This season has not started well either. United have won only three of their eight matches across all competitions, and their EFL Cup campaign ended in a shock second-round elimination to League Two side Grimsby Town on penalties.

The results have triggered criticism from fans, pundits, and sections of the media, with speculation growing about whether Amorim’s position is secure. It is in this atmosphere that Mancini has reportedly expressed belief that he could be the man United turn to next.

Mancini is currently without a job after leaving his role as manager of the Saudi Arabian national team in October 2024. He is well-known in the Premier League, having managed Manchester City between 2009 and 2013, during which he famously led them to the Premier League title and FA Cup triumph in the 2011–12 season. He later took charge of the Italian national team and guided them to the UEFA Euro 2020 title, defeating England in the final on penalties. Throughout his managerial career, Mancini has faced Manchester United 12 times, winning five, losing six, and drawing once.

Separate reports also claim Pep Guardiola is interested in signing Aleksandar Pavlovic, even though the Bayern Munich midfielder is a target for Manchester United as well. According to *Fichajes.net*, Manchester City want Pavlovic to strengthen their midfield. While the club signed Tijjani Reijnders from AC Milan in the summer, they remain concerned about long-term depth. Bernardo Silva’s contract expires next summer, Rodri’s long-term fitness has been questioned, and Nico Gonzalez has struggled to make a major impact.

Manchester United, meanwhile, were unable to secure an experienced midfielder during the recent transfer window and have struggled in that area. Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo have not been consistently convincing, prompting Ruben Amorim to deploy Bruno Fernandes in an unfamiliar deeper midfield role.

Pavlovic has established himself as a promising young midfielder for Bayern Munich. The 21-year-old, known for his composure in possession, has made 63 senior appearances, scoring four goals and providing three assists. His current contract runs until 2029, meaning any transfer would require a significant offer