Despite Manchester United’s exhilarating 4-3 triumph over Liverpool in the FA Cup, manager Erik ten Hag finds himself under continued scrutiny. While the victory against Jurgen Klopp’s side at Old Trafford on Sunday showcased the Dutchman’s ability to secure significant wins, lingering doubts persist regarding his suitability for the position.
Following a promising inaugural year after his move from Ajax in 2022, Ten Hag’s second season has been a disappointment. His team’s early exit from European competitions and their struggle to secure a Champions League qualification spot, currently sitting sixth in the league, nine points behind Aston Villa in fourth, has raised concerns.
While there remains the possibility of clinching another piece of silverware in the FA Cup, adding to last season’s Carabao Cup, Ten Hag now faces the challenge of navigating the influence of new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Ratcliffe and his team have taken charge of all football operations, placing Ten Hag in a precarious position should the 71-year-old British billionaire decide to appoint his own choice for manager. It’s a situation where both poor results and new ownership typically spell trouble for managers, and unfortunately for Ten Hag, he’s confronting both simultaneously.
As for Ten Hag’s job security at Manchester United, he signed a three-year contract upon his arrival, set to expire in 2025. While sources indicate he acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding his position, there’s no indication yet of a decision by Ratcliffe and his team to terminate his contract.
Despite being actively involved in transfer window planning and organizing summer tours, Ten Hag hasn’t received formal assurances about his managerial future. Reports suggest that several managers’ representatives have approached United, presenting their clients as potential replacements. Meanwhile, Ratcliffe’s associate, Sir Dave Brailsford, is diligently evaluating various candidates.
While United’s FA Cup semifinal berth and the remaining league fixtures offer a chance for salvaging the season with a trophy and Champions League qualification, Brailsford’s decision regarding Ten Hag will likely consider broader factors beyond short-term results.
Another aspect for Ratcliffe and Brailsford to weigh is the financial implications of sacking Ten Hag, with compensation potentially exceeding £10 million. Empowered by Ratcliffe, Brailsford aims to reshape United’s off-field structure and appoint individuals best suited for each role.
This strategic overhaul could impact Ten Hag’s autonomy, as Brailsford views the manager’s role as part of a broader organizational framework rather than absolute authority.
Ten Hag, on his part, acknowledges the shortcomings of the current campaign despite his past successes. He attributes setbacks to a lengthy injury list that has depleted key players for significant periods. Notably, the team’s defensive line has been particularly affected, forcing Ten Hag to experiment with various combinations.
Though United showed promise with a string of victories following the clearing of the injury crisis in January, a sobering defeat to Manchester City underscored the gap in quality.
While Ten Hag remains optimistic about his tenure, aware that FA Cup success and Champions League qualification could solidify his position, Ratcliffe’s ambitions for United’s resurgence may demand a different leadership approach.
The impending decision by Ratcliffe, Brailsford, and their associates, in consultation with incoming executives Berrada and Ashworth, marks a pivotal moment for Ten Hag and Manchester United.
While there’s acknowledgment of Ten Hag’s prior accomplishments, divergent views within the fan base and the club’s hierarchy about his suitability underscore the uncertainty surrounding his future. Ultimately, Ten Hag’s fate may hinge on his ability to deliver Champions League football and align with the club’s long-term vision under new ownership.
