Man Utd’s Season Stabilizes with a Victory, But Ten Hag’s Future Remains Uncertain
Manchester United’s recent victory over Everton has provided much-needed stability to their season, following successive defeats. The win not only prevented them from recording three consecutive Premier League losses for the first time since 2015 but also eased the intense scrutiny on manager Erik ten Hag. However, despite the relief of the victory, Ten Hag’s future at the club remains uncertain.
A New Structure Takes Shape
Recent developments behind the scenes at Old Trafford suggest that Ten Hag’s fate may not solely depend on whether United qualify for next season’s Champions League, as previously speculated. With Ineos now in charge of football operations at the club, a new structure is taking shape. The impending arrival of Omar Berrada as chief executive, known for his vast experience with the City Football Group, is seen as a crucial appointment. Berrada’s expertise in both men’s and women’s football operations, as well as executing deals, will be invaluable to United.
Dan Ashworth, Newcastle’s sporting director, is another potential addition to the team. While United is reluctant to pay the suggested £20m fee for his services, a compensation deal is likely to be struck given Ashworth’s reputation as one of the best in his field. Southampton’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, is also rumored to be a target. Although the club has denied any interest in Crystal Palace’s sporting director Dougie Freedman, it is evident that further appointments are on the horizon.
Completing the Picture
In addition to Berrada and potential additions like Ashworth and Wilcox, United has already secured the services of Sir Dave Brailsford and Jean-Claude Blanc for their football board. Brailsford, a highly respected figure with a strong background in sports management, has been actively involved behind the scenes. Blanc, who held senior positions at Juventus and Paris St-Germain, brings a wealth of experience and connections to the table. The inclusion of these individuals completes a behind-the-scenes structure that aims to revolutionize the club’s operations.
The Implications for Ten Hag
The restructuring of the club’s management has raised questions about the evaluation of Ten Hag’s performance. Manchester United has experienced a lack of success under several highly accomplished managers, including David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, Jose Mourinho, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Ralf Rangnick, and Ten Hag himself. This pattern suggests that there may be other factors contributing to the team’s struggles beyond just the manager. Thus, the question arises: should Ten Hag be judged until he is working under the right structures?
The Possibility of Ten Hag’s Continuation
While no final decision has been made, there are indications that Ten Hag could remain in his position into next season. The Dutchman himself has hinted at this possibility through his public statements. The uncertainty surrounding Ten Hag’s future is further compounded by the practicality of sacking a manager. The compensation paid in such cases affects a club’s profit and sustainability figures, impacting their ability to spend in other areas.
Ineos Reshaping United’s Future
The involvement of Ineos in reshaping Manchester United signifies a significant shift in the club’s direction. The new structure being implemented aims to address the stagnation that many attribute to poor decisions made under the Glazer ownership, particularly by former executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward. Ineos’ ambition to rejuvenate the club extends beyond on-field performance and includes potential plans for a brand new stadium as part of a wider regeneration project, as discussed by Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham.
In conclusion, while Manchester United’s recent victory has provided temporary relief for the team and Erik ten Hag, the future remains uncertain for the manager. The ongoing restructuring behind the scenes, led by Ineos, suggests that Ten Hag’s performance will be evaluated within the context of a new management structure. The potential additions of key personnel and the overall changes being implemented demonstrate Ineos’ commitment to transforming the club’s fortunes. As a result, Ten Hag’s future at Manchester United hangs in the balance, leaving the possibility of his continuation into next season open.