Queiroz preparing to leave United. A new number two beckons

8 July 08 by Bill

Ever since Phil Scolari took over at Chelsea, rumours over the Brazilians replacement as manager of Portugal have been rife with reports that Carlos Queiroz is their number one target.

Queiroz was highly credited in helping Manchester United win back their title in 2003, so much so that Real Madrid came knocking and the 2004/2005 season saw Queiroz at the helm of the Spanish giants and the title slip away from Old Trafford. An unsuccessful campaign in Madrid saw him sacked after just one season and having first hand experience of how good for the club he was, Sir Alex had no quarms in bringing him back.

Three seasons later, two titles under the belt and we are back where we started. The lure of management is just too strong and with the Portuguese FA seemingly desperate to land their man and reportedly double their initial contract offer, it looks almost certain that he will be moving on.

Speaking in Portugal yesterday, Queiroz said: ”I want all parties involved to come to an agreement quickly, but from my point of view it’s an easy deal.”

Replacing Carlos Queiroz will be no easy task, he has been instrumental in building the United team we see today. Some of the potential candidates include Laurent Blanc, Brian McClair, Rene Meulensteen, Pako Ayesteran and with slim to no chance, after his recent declaration, Eric Cantona.