This week, news from Manchester United revealed that the club’s greatest manager, Alex Ferguson, will end his well-paid role as a global ambassador.
For now, the current manager, Erik ten Hag, is still in his position. However, that seemed uncertain before the latest international break, as United was having its worst start to a season in the history of the English Premier League.
Ten Hag managed to keep his job after a visit from club co-owners Jim Ratcliffe and Joel Glazer this month, while Ferguson’s contract, which is worth millions, will end at the season’s close.
Ferguson is the most successful manager in United’s history, having won 28 major trophies, including 13 league titles and two Champions Leagues.
“Such a lack of respect. It’s totally scandalous,” posted United legend Eric Cantona on social media.
Few would have expected that Ferguson would leave before Ten Hag during such a tough time for the Dutchman.
Even Ratcliffe, who paid $1.3 billion for a 27.7% stake in the club in February, did not show public support for Ten Hag when asked if he trusted him.
Despite the speculation, Ten Hag has been preparing for Saturday’s match against Brentford, hoping to secure only United’s third league win of the season and the first since September 14. United is going into the game at Old Trafford following a five-game winless streak.
This poor form has increased speculation about Ten Hag’s future, but he may feel more confident after a leading candidate to replace him was no longer available.
Thomas Tuchel was reportedly considered by United during the offseason, but he was announced as England’s new manager on Wednesday. Another potential candidate, Mauricio Pochettino, was hired by the United States last month.
