Manchester United have parted ways with José Mourinho, whom they hired two and a half seasons ago, and they are now in search of his replacement.

While confirming the Portuguese dismissal, United’s Vice-chairman Ed Woodward thanked the Portuguese manager for his achievements throughout his time at Old Trafford. He also wished him well in all his future endeavours.

“The club would like to thank Jose for his work during his time at Manchester United and to wish him success in the future,” he said

The Red Devils have come to the end of another manager’s spell and they are bracing up for a new atmosphere and new style of play.

Woodward confirmed the board’s readiness to hire an interim manager for the rest of the season, while, they are set to take time before hiring a full-time manager.

“A new caretaker manager will be appointed until the end of the current
season, while the club conducts a thorough recruitment process for a new, full-time manager.” he confirmed.

Considering Mourinho’s pedigree, Manchester United won’t go for a manager with la ower reputation. It’s going to take them much time and concentration to find the best man to lead the team to a greater height.

We take a look at top three managers who could replace Mourinho

• West Ham to seal deal for £15m-rated Red Devils player

Zinedine Zidane

The Frenchman remains the leading candidate for the job having proved his managerial ability with Real Madrid.

His days at Santiago Bernabeu were largely successful, he led the team to three back-to-back Champions League trophies.

He also led them to 2016-17 La Liga title, to join the list of managers who won three trophies in a single season during their managerial careers.

The former Real Madrid manager was linked with a move to Old Trafford during the summer window after he surprisingly quit his post at Madrid, however, no deal was sealed by the Red Devils.

Prior to the start of this season, the Glazers were happy with Mourinho’s previous achievements, so, they retained his signature.

Now that the Portuguese manager has been relieved of his job, Zinedine Zidane is being tipped to replace the manager ahead of next season.

Mauricio Pochetino

Though he’s still searching for his first silverware with Tottenham, Argentine manager Mauricio Pochetino is in the race to becoming the next United manager.

Irrespective of his inability to lead the North London club to their first trophy since 2008, Pochetino’s achievement at Wembley can’t be overemphasized.

He’s turned the Lilywhites from a mid-table team to title-contenders. They now qualify for Champions League competition without stress and struggles.

It is certain the relatively young manager will take United to a new level of greatness, however, it is yet to be seen if the Argentine is willing to join the Old Trafford outfits.

Antonio Conte

Antonio Conte could replace Mourinho for the second time in his coaching career. The Italian manager was hired by Chelsea as Mourinho’s replacement in 2016 and went on to win the Premier League glory in the same season.

Despite winning his second trophy in his second season in Stamford Bridge, the former Juventus boss was sacked by Roman Abramovich before the start of this campaign as a result of his unhealthy relationship with his employers.

Conte is a manager with lots of experience but he must change his attitude if he must be make his mark with the Red Devils.