Luis Enrique makes decision on becoming next Man Utd manager | Football | Sport
Luis Enrique will reject a switch to Manchester United in favour of penning fresh terms with Paris Saint-Germain. The Spaniard had emerged as one of United’s primary targets in their hunt for a permanent manager, with reports suggesting United officials had flown to Paris for discussions with the former Barcelona chief.
His existing agreement with PSG, whom he guided to Champions League success last season, extends until the conclusion of 2026-27. There were suggestions United attempted to convince him against signing an extension. However, it’s understood he feels the United role isn’t the right opportunity for him. He also harbours concerns about taking control of a side that may not feature in the Champions League next term.
The 55 year old has been in negotiations with PSG sporting director Luis Campos regarding a fresh contract at the Parc des Princes, which would secure his services in the French capital until 2030. Enrique enjoys a solid working relationship with Campos, who has also recently penned an extension.
The development represents a setback for United’s ownership, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazers, with Ratcliffe’s appreciation for Enrique well documented, and the Spaniard being amongst their principal candidates. Michael Carrick has assumed interim responsibilities whilst club hierarchy seek to appoint a permanent manager in the summer.
Old Trafford decision-makers INEOS have demanded someone capable of managing the immense pressure and expectations associated with the position, and there’s no questioning the extensive top-level managerial credentials that Enrique possesses.
During his tenure at Barcelona, he secured nine major honours, including the 2015 Champions League title, and has since added another 10 trophies with PSG – amongst them last season’s victory in Europe’s most prestigious club tournament.
When he eventually departs PSG, reports suggest he would prefer a return to the Nou Camp rather than pursuing opportunities elsewhere.
For United, Carrick would emerge as a serious candidate should he deliver Champions League qualification, whilst England manager Thomas Tuchel and Carlo Ancelotti remain on the club’s radar.
