The pressure on Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has reached a critical point following their recent defeat to Manchester City, leading to speculation about his future at the club.
Despite positive discussions with new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his associate Sir Dave Brailsford, Ten Hag has received no assurances regarding his position beyond the current season.
With Champions League qualification increasingly uncertain, potential contenders for the United managerial role have emerged, with representatives of various managers reportedly expressing interest in the position should Ten Hag be sacked.
While Ten Hag, Ratcliffe, and Brailsford share a long-term vision for the club, the Dutchman understands that his job security ultimately hinges on on-field results.
Although Ten Hag has been involved in transfer planning and preseason preparations, his future remains uncertain, with other major managerial positions available this summer.
Despite the absence of formal discussions with potential replacements, the club is reportedly considering contingency plans in case of a coaching change.
Ratcliffe’s INEOS team has already made significant changes to the football side, including appointing Omar Berrada as CEO and targeting individuals like Dan Ashworth and Jason Wilcox for key roles in the sporting department.
The next few matches will be crucial for Ten Hag’s future, with United facing Everton in the Premier League and a crucial FA Cup quarter-final against Liverpool.
With their hopes of a top-four finish dwindling, a positive result in these games could provide some relief for Ten Hag.
However, failure to secure Champions League football or a trophy this season may prompt United to consider alternative managerial options for the upcoming campaign.
