Manchester United have added Niko Kovac to their list of potential managers this summer, according to journalist Rudy Galetti.
The Croatian tactician, currently at Borussia Dortmund, has attracted increasing attention from top European clubs, including Chelsea, who had explored his potential before appointing Liam Rosenior.
However, Kovac immediately ruled out leaving the club midway through the season and reinforced his commitment to Dortmund.
Michael Carrick has been appointed United’s caretaker manager until the end of the season.
Man United still considering options
The decision reflects United’s desire to reset the project, assess the squad and fully evaluate long-term options before committing to a permanent appointment.
Carrick’s role is only temporary and INEOS and the club’s executives will leave no stone unturned in their search for a manager.
Kovac has successfully rebuilt his reputation at Borussia Dortmund since taking over. His journey at BVB has been one of stability, tactical clarity and efficient team management.
Dortmund’s Kovac:
appointed: January 2025
predecessor: Nuri Sahin fired after 7 turbulent months
initial contract:Until June 2026
expansion: Early renewal in August 2025, extended until June 2027
Under Kovac, Dortmund have regained an identity of being compact, aggressive, efficient in transition and effective without the ball.
His methods have been widely praised and his team currently sit second in the Bundesliga, just 11 points behind historically dominant Bayern Munich.
Red Devils need a complete reset of philosophy
United are looking for a manager who can reboot the team’s culture and structure, and Kovac ticks some key boxes.
Kovac’s contract with BVB runs until 2027, and German sources claim that Dortmund consider Kovac to be essential to their medium-term sporting vision.
INEOS is currently at the heart of the club’s structure, with his appointment in the summer of 2026 expected to shape the club’s next era.
Kovac is currently one of the most attractive options, but it could be very difficult to lure him away from Dortmund.
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