Appoint Zidane as Amorim’s replacement - Former England star tells Manchester United

Former Southampton and England striker Charlie Austin has called on Manchester United to make a bold move for Zinedine Zidane as pressure mounts on current boss Ruben Amorim.

United’s Carabao Cup exit at the hands of fourth-tier Grimsby Town on Wednesday has sparked renewed debate over the club’s managerial direction.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Austin insisted the French legend could transform the struggling Red Devils.

“If it’s my decision, I am going after Zinedine Zidane. I’m trying to convince him to come to Manchester United. Shouldn’t need doing, but at this moment in time, you do,” Austin said.

However, the ex-striker admitted doubts remain over Zidane’s suitability given United’s current state.

“It’s been four years since we last saw Zidane sitting on the bench of a football team. He left Real Madrid for the second time in May 2021 and has been linked with a number of jobs since as he takes a break from the beautiful game.

"I would take Zidane, but is he the right man for the job at Manchester United as we speak at the moment? Probably not.”

Austin also floated the idea of a more pragmatic managerial option, highlighting Sean Dyche’s work at Burnley and Everton.

“My honest opinion is that you have to look at the jobs that Sean Dyche has done at Burnley, what he did at Everton. He stabilised the club, at least he is going to put structure in there. What Manchester United need right now is structure. That is something they do not have," he added.

With Amorim under intense scrutiny and United faltering in the early stages of the season, speculation around his future continues to grow and Zidane’s name has once again been thrust into the spotlight.