Four things will “definitely” happen if Manchester United decide to appoint Oliver Glasner as their next permanent manager this summer.
Glasner confirmed on Friday that he will leave Crystal Palace at the end of the 2025/26 season, bringing his two-and-a-half-year spell at Selhurst Park to a close.
Speaking at a press conference, the Austrian revealed that the decision had been made months ago. He explained that he held a long meeting with chairman Steve Parish during the October international break, where he made it clear he would not be signing a new contract.
Both parties agreed to keep the matter private for several months, until Glasner felt the timing was right to inform the squad and provide clarity.
With the Manchester United managerial position expected to become vacant in the summer, Glasner has emerged as one of the leading candidates in recent months.
United legend Michael Carrick was appointed interim manager earlier this week, replacing Ruben Amorim, who was dismissed just seven days earlier.
If INEOS ultimately choose Glasner as the man to lead United into a new era, these are four consequences that appear almost inevitable.
Four Things That Will ‘Definitely Happen’: A Move for Adam Wharton
Under Glasner’s guidance at Crystal Palace, Adam Wharton has developed into one of the most impressive young playmaking midfielders in world football.
The 21-year-old, a graduate of Blackburn Rovers’ academy, is already on the fringes of the England squad and has attracted interest from European giants including Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.
Manchester United are expected to strengthen their midfield next summer, and with significant funds available, a formal bid for Wharton seems highly likely. The player is already understood to be hugely admired by senior figures at Old Trafford, making him a natural target should Glasner arrive.
The 3-4-3 Makes a Comeback
Ruben Amorim’s insistence on sticking rigidly to a three-defender system was reportedly one of the major factors behind his downfall at Manchester United. According to reports, tensions escalated during an internal meeting when the idea of changing shape was raised by director of football Jason Wilcox.
Under Michael Carrick, United are expected to revert to a back four, a system he previously favoured during his time at Middlesbrough.
Glasner, however, enjoyed considerable success at Palace with his preferred 3-4-3 formation, using two inside forwards operating either side of Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Crucially, the Austrian has shown far greater tactical flexibility than his predecessor, meaning supporters could expect a hybrid approach, with switches to a back four whenever the situation demands it.
Carrick Moves On
Once his interim spell comes to an end, it would be surprising if Michael Carrick remained at Manchester United for long, beyond helping to oversee the transition to a new permanent manager.
Carrick previously served as head coach of Middlesbrough between 2024 and 2025 and had been linked with the managerial role at West Ham before United approached him.
Although his time on Teesside ended with a disappointing 10th-place finish, Carrick earned praise for his work with young, attack-minded players.
That experience is likely to appeal to a number of clubs searching for a new manager, even if the opportunity ultimately arises outside the Premier League.
A Rare Winning Streak
Just two months after taking charge at Crystal Palace, Glasner oversaw a remarkable run in which the Eagles won six of their final seven Premier League matches at the end of the 2023/24 season.
Known for making an immediate impact, Glasner could finally deliver something United fans have long craved: five consecutive victories across all competitions.
And if that happens, it might even force viral supporter TheUnitedStrand to finally follow through on his long-promised haircut.
