Manchester United assistant coach linked with surprise move to international team - Reports
Manchester United assistant coach Steve McClaren has been linked with a surprise move to manage the Nigeria national team. He currently works under Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford, but the 63-year-old could be headed for an international role, if reports are to be believed.
Following Finidi George's exit from the Super Eagles' managerial position, SoccerNet (via TalkSPORT) have reported that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) are considering appointing McClaren. The 63-year-old coach has a strong coaching CV that has seen him manage clubs like Middlesbrough, who he led to the UEFA Cup final in 2006.
McLAren has also managed QPR, Twente, Wolfsburg, Nottingham Forest, Derby County, and Newcastle United. He has also taken on the assistant manager role at Manchester United twice, with the first time coming under Sir Alex Ferguson.
The NFF will be more interested in the fact that McClaren also has experience managing an international team. He notably managed England, albeit for just a year between 2006 and 2007. The report claims that they have contacted him, but there are concerns regarding him adapting to managing in Africa.
Former Manchester United striker tells club how to sign star player ahead of European giants
Manchester United are reportedly interested in the services of Lille centre-back Leny Yoro, but it will not be an easy task to convince the 18-year-old Frenchman. This is because Real Madrid have set their sights on Yoro, who is reportedly excited about a move to the Santiago Bernabeu.
However, former United striker Louis Saha has told the English giants how to get him ahead of Los Blancos. During a conversation with Betfred, he said (via Evening Standard):
"Yes [they should offer more money] because that’s the position Manchester United are in right now because they’re not in the Champions League and Real Madrid are the holders of it. It’s as simple as that. There are factors that attract players and sometimes you need to look at your trajectory and chances of progression."
Saha continued:
“That will be part of Yoro’s decision, but it won’t stop him dreaming about playing for other clubs... I definitely see a better structure at Manchester United and this is something that Yoro could be aware of and on the table for him to consider, so hopefully he can make the right decision.”
According to reports, the Red Devils have already reached an agreement with Lille regarding a fee for Yoro's transfer and only the player's approval is needed to complete the signing.