Manchester United reportedly opted against a managerial approach for Antonio Conte as they believed that the players would struggle to adapt to the Italian's demands.
After leaving Scudetto champions Inter Milan by mutual consent at the end of last season, the 52-year-old spent five months out of work before replacing Nuno Espirito Santo at Tottenham Hotspur in November.
Prior to his move to North London, Conte was heavily linked with replacing Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at Old Trafford, however the Red Devils decided to appoint Ralf Rangnick on an interim basis instead.
According to a source provided to the Daily Mail, Conte is recognised by United's hierarchy as a great coach, however they feel that his demands would not suit the current group of players at Old Trafford.
The report adds that United's players would both individually and collectively struggle to adapt to Conte's philosophy which is one of the reasons why they decided against the Italian.
Since taking the reins in Manchester, Rangnick is yet to set to world alight with his 4-2-2-2 formation, with one report claiming that some United players have doubts as to whether the German is the right man for the job.
Oliver Thomas
