David Moyes’ and Manchester United’s woeful season reached a dead end on Tuesday when the Scottish coach was unceremoniously dismissed in a manner so uncharacteristic of the Red Devils.
But what would have been the turning point in United’s managerial overhaul is now looking increasingly unlikely, after first-choice target and Borussia Dortmund Coach, Jurgen Klopp turned down the chance to swap the Bundesliga for the Premiership.
“Man Utd is a great club and I feel very familiar with their wonderful fans”, the energetic German told The Guardian. “But my commitment to Borussia Dortmund and the people is not breakable.”
Klopp is one of the most coveted coaches in European football, having led Dortmund to back-to-back league titles since taking over from Thomas Doll in 2008. He also defied the bookmakers to lead Dortmund to the final of last season’s Champions League final in London, which was narrowly lost to the all-conquering, treble-winning Bayern Munich.
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In Klopp’s absence, outgoing Netherlands boss, Louis van Gaal becomes the frontrunner to secure Moyes’ job. Having won titles in Holland, Spain and Germany, van Gaal is an attractive prospect for the Glazers, especially as he will be available on a free transfer at the end of the Brazil 2014 FIFA World Cup. However, concerns persist over his harsh training methods, and how this would be received by United’s senior players, who had the same complaint about Moyes.
Also being considered are Atletico Madrid coach, Diego Simeone, and Jose Mourinho’s successor at Real Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti.
Moyes endured a torrid campaign in charge of the reigning Premier League champions, with Sunday’s abject 2-0 loss to former club Everton guaranteeing that the Red Devils will miss out on a place in next season’s Champions League as well as a place in the Top Six.
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The defeat at Goodison Park was the defending champions’ 11th of the season, just one short of relegation-threatened West Bromwich Albion’s run of 12 defeats.
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