The pressure on Dutch coach Erik ten Hag has escalated since the commencement of the new season, with Manchester United struggling to deliver cohesive performances and suffering a string of disheartening defeats, including a recent 3-0 loss to rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford.
Ten Hag, who was appointed by the Glazer family and United chief executive Richard Arnold in the summer of 2022 following a dismal Premier League campaign, enjoyed initial success with a top-four finish and League Cup victory in his debut season. However, this term has seen a noticeable regression on the pitch.
Despite the recruitment of several high-profile players under Ten Hag’s management, including goalkeeper Andre Onana and midfielder Mason Mount, United has faced challenges, with Onana making errors and Mount struggling for regular starting opportunities.
Consequently, pressure has mounted on the 53-year-old coach, raising doubts about his future at the club. However, both the Glazers and Arnold have expressed their support for Ten Hag, believing in his ability to reverse the team’s fortunes.
Meanwhile, the Glazers are in the process of relinquishing control of United’s sporting operations, with discussions ongoing regarding Ratcliffe and INEOS’s potential investment. Despite this transition,
Ratcliffe and other stakeholders remain confident in Ten Hag’s leadership, considering his track record at Ajax and his accomplishments in his debut season at United. They believe that the responsibility for the team’s shortcomings does not solely rest on the manager’s shoulders.
Ratcliffe’s impending decisions are expected to reshape United’s footballing structure, with potential changes to the club’s sporting direction and transfer strategy.
It’s understood that Paul Mitchell is a leading candidate for the role of sporting director, as the club seeks to adopt a long-term vision and identity.
This shift towards a more sustainable approach aims to establish consistency and success akin to rival clubs like Manchester City and Liverpool.
Despite the potential for significant changes behind the scenes, United is unlikely to undertake major business in the January transfer window. Instead, the focus remains on stability, with Ten Hag encouraged to concentrate on coaching and maximizing the potential of the existing squad.
Knee-jerk reactions are to be avoided as the club undergoes an inquiry led by Brailsford to evaluate the current operation and ensure long-term success.
Overall, the narrative surrounding Ten Hag’s future at Manchester United underscores the complexities and challenges facing the club, as stakeholders navigate a period of transition and seek to establish a clear vision for sustained success in the years to come.
