Thomas Frank reiterated how happy he was with life at Brentford but admitted “what happens in the future, who knows” after he was today linked with the managerial vacancy at Manchester United.
United this morning sacked Erik ten Hag after two-and-a-half uninspiring years in charge with Frank among the bookmakers’ favourites to succeed him at Old Trafford.
The Dane took over at Brentford in October 2018 after initially joining as assistant to Richard O’Kelly. He led the Bees to the Premier League in 2021 after they overcame Swansea City in the play-off final.
They have enjoyed finishes of 13th, ninth and 16th in the three subsequent seasons, overcoming a small budget with clever recruitment and a bold playing style.
Asked today if he would like the opportunity to speak to United if they approached Brentford, Frank said: “It’s a very delicate question. I have a big responsibility to Brentford Football Club, the fans, [club owner] Matthew [Benham], leadership, players, staff and I have one focus: that is to do our very best to beat Sheffield Wednesday tomorrow in the Carabao Cup and focus on that.
“I have said many, many times, I am happy here, I think it’s one of the best clubs in the world. What happens in the future who knows but I am very, very happy here.”
“What happens in the future……Who knows?” 🤷♂️
Thomas Frank reacts to the Erik Ten Hag sacking and reveals whether or not he’d be open to talking to Manchester United pic.twitter.com/ZZcsJ21RWR
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) October 28, 2024
I’m happy here and enjoying life – Frank
As one of the longest-serving managers in English football, Frank could be forgiven for wanting a new challenge and taking on one of the biggest clubs in the world.
Asked if had earned the right to challenge himself elsewhere, Frank said: “If I had that let’s say, [and I’m] not speaking about the current situation, then that would be between Matthew, [director of football] Phil [Giles] and I, if I thought I should want to do something different.
“But at the minute I am happy here and enjoying life.”
Brentford lost 2-1 to United on October 19 but bounced back on Saturday by beating Ipswich Town 4-3 courtesy of Bryan Mbeumo’s injury-time goal.
The club are ninth in the Premier League, five places and two points better off than United.
They face Sheffield Wednesday in the fourth round of the EFL Cup tomorrow night.
