Graham Potter has emerged as a potential candidate to succeed Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, as the Dutch manager struggles to keep his job amid a challenging start to the new season. Despite the growing speculation, Potter has remained tight-lipped regarding the possibility of replacing Ten Hag. Manchester United’s poor performance, including a crushing defeat to Tottenham, has put immense pressure on Ten Hag, who is now at risk of losing his position. Although the club is likely to stand by him for the time being, further disappointments could lead to his dismissal, positioning Potter as a possible contender for the role.
Having been out of work since his departure from Chelsea in April 2023, Potter had previously impressed during his stints at Östersund, Swansea City, and Brighton. When questioned about the rumors of his interest in the United job, Potter diplomatically declined to engage, telling *Monday Night Football*, “No, I’m sitting here enjoying this challenge of answering your questions. That’s where I’m at at the moment.” Despite being linked with the Manchester United position over the summer—especially with Dan Ashworth, his former sporting director at Brighton, now in the same role at Old Trafford—Potter remained firm in his refusal to discuss the rumors.
In addressing the media speculation, Potter remarked that he takes such stories with a grain of salt. “I am the only coach in world football to be linked with Stoke City and Napoli in the same week. I have had lots of conversations with lots of people,” he said, emphasizing the importance of keeping those discussions private. He also spoke warmly of Ashworth, praising his support and challenging leadership during their time at Brighton.
Having experienced similar pressures during his time at Chelsea, Potter expressed empathy for Ten Hag’s current situation. Offering some advice to the Dutchman, Potter stressed the importance of maintaining perspective and rationalizing the circumstances. He acknowledged the emotional nature of football, where fans seek answers and often place blame on the manager. “We are not perfect, and we do make mistakes. It’s part of the job,” Potter admitted. He noted that Ten Hag likely shares the same understanding, especially at a club like Manchester United, where expectations are high, and criticism is inevitable following poor performances. In such high-stakes environments, the pressure mounts on whoever is seen to be falling short.
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