The future of Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is set to dominate discussions during the club’s end-of-season review. Unlike his predecessor, Louis van Gaal, who was past his prime, Ten Hag still has a lot to offer. After a well-deserved victory over last season’s Treble winners in the FA Cup final, Ten Hag made it clear that if the club doesn’t want him, he will go elsewhere to win trophies.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, co-owner of Manchester United through his Ineos group, will need to make a decision about Ten Hag’s future. Ratcliffe, along with directors Sir Dave Brailsford and Jean-Claude Blanc, and technical director Jason Wilcox, must weigh the competing arguments. On one hand, Ten Hag has had success with Ajax, winning five trophies in four and a half years. On the other hand, United’s recent performances have been lackluster, with injuries being used as an excuse.
There was speculation that Ten Hag would be sacked regardless of the FA Cup final outcome, but the club offered no comment on this matter. The end-of-season review will take place after the match against Manchester City, and a decision on Ten Hag’s future will be made then. The feeling a few months ago was leaning towards keeping faith in Ten Hag, as the focus has been on putting the right support structures in place. However, a string of poor performances in April raised doubts.
United’s struggles this season have been evident in their league position and points total. They finished in eighth place with 60 points, their lowest position and points total in 34 years. Champions League qualification is out of reach, which is something Ratcliffe emphasized in an interview earlier this year. Despite these difficulties, Ten Hag has shown his ability to handle major issues within the squad.
The decision on Ten Hag’s future is crucial for Manchester United. Alternative options have been considered, including Thomas Tuchel, Mauricio Pochettino, Kieran McKenna, and Thomas Frank. However, Ten Hag has made his position clear, and Ratcliffe will soon reveal his decision.
In conclusion, Manchester United’s end-of-season review will focus on the future of manager Erik ten Hag. The club must weigh his success with Ajax against the team’s recent poor performances. The decision will have significant implications for the club’s direction moving forward.