Former Manchester United goalkeeper Ben Foster has identified Aston Villa's highly-rated manager Unai Emery as the ideal candidate to take over the reins at Old Trafford, following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim.
Foster's High Praise for Villa Boss
Speaking to talkSPORT, Foster, who made 23 appearances for United between 2005 and 2010, did not hold back in his admiration for the Spanish tactician. "I have to throw one name in there, who's the best manager in the world for me at the minute, and that is Unai Emery," Foster stated. He described Emery as being "right at the top" of his profession, citing the transformative work he has done at Aston Villa as clear evidence of the leadership currently lacking at Manchester United.
However, Foster was quick to acknowledge the significant obstacle any approach would face. "Aston Villa fans will hate this because they do not want to get rid of this guy - and rightly so," he conceded, adding that he was unsure if Emery himself would even be interested in the role given the positive project he is leading at Villa Park.
The Vacancy at Old Trafford
The managerial position at Manchester United became vacant on Monday, 5th January 2026, after the club parted ways with Portuguese coach Ruben Amorim. His turbulent 14-month reign ended following a 1-1 draw with Leeds United, amid reports of growing tensions with the club's hierarchy.
Amorim's departure came after he presided over United's worst-ever Premier League finish of 15th last season, which saw the club miss out on European football for the first time in over a decade. This campaign, the team currently sits sixth after 20 matches, with a record of eight wins, seven draws, and five losses.
Reports suggest Amorim's rigid tactical approach, particularly a steadfast commitment to a 3-4-3 formation, caused friction behind the scenes and left players frustrated. Former United midfielder Darren Fletcher has taken temporary charge while the search for a permanent successor is conducted.
A Daunting Rebuild Awaits
Whoever takes the job faces a complex and daunting rebuild. Despite an investment of more than £200 million in new signings last summer, the team has struggled for consistency. Foster believes the next appointment must be a commanding figure who can navigate the club's internal politics.
"I get the impression they need somebody with a big character, a lot of authority and almost an aura to take that pressure away from the players," Foster explained. He highlighted a key issue at Old Trafford, stating, "I just think there's too many chefs trying to stir the broth at Manchester United. There are too many people unwilling to relinquish power... No manager will be able to walk in and have full autonomy anymore."
While Emery's stellar work at Aston Villa has naturally attracted admiring glances from bigger clubs, there is little current indication he is seeking a move. At Villa, he has overseen a period of sustained progress, delivering consistent top-half finishes and European qualification with strong backing from the club's owners.
For now, Manchester United's search continues, with Unai Emery's name firmly in the frame thanks to a compelling endorsement from a former player.
