Manchester United managerial target Graham Potter has reportedly turned down the opportunity of becoming the next head coach of Ajax following talks with the Eredivisie giants.
The 48-year-old has been without a club since his dismissal from Chelsea in April 2023 but has been linked with several opportunities in recent months, both in the Premier League and abroad.
After a dismal start to the 2023-24 season, Ajax appointed John van't Schip as manager on an interim basis following the sacking of Maurice Steijn back in October.
However, the Dutch coach has not met the club's expectations this season, with many of his high-profile signings failing to deliver the desired performance level.
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Potter turns down Ajax managerial offer
Despite consultation with the club's hierarchy and being the top choice to lead Ajax forward next season, Potter has now rebuffed their interest, according to a report from The Athletic.
The report adds that while Potter was left impressed by the Eredivisie outfit's infrastructure and sporting project, he deemed it was not the right time for him to join the club.
Potter's decision to forego a move to the Eredivisie comes at a time when several high-profile coaches, including himself, have been linked with a move to Old Trafford in the summer.
Following a promising debut campaign, Erik ten Hag has overseen one of the club's worst campaigns in recent history this term, with United currently at risk of failing to qualify for European competition next season.
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United eyeing up Ten Hag replacements
With his side currently in eighth place in the Premier League and having won just one of their last seven league games, there has been widespread speculation that Ten Hag could be replaced at Old Trafford at the end of this season.
However, Potter is not the only manager who has been linked with the potential vacancy at the Theatre of Dreams in the event of Ten Hag's departure after two years at the helm.
Other possible candidates include England manager Gareth Southgate as well as Bayern Munich's Thomas Tuchel, who is set to leave the Bavarians at the end of the 2023-24 campaign.
Brighton and Hove Albion's Roberto De Zerbi and former Bayern and Germany manager Hansi Flick are also among those who are believed to be under consideration for the position.
Devesh Jaganath
