Erik ten Hag's future as Manchester United manager hangs in the balance, with the club's co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS team conducting a thorough end-of-season review. Sources have indicated that a decision regarding Ten Hag's continuation is not expected immediately.
The review, spearheaded by INEOS's director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford, is expected to scrutinize all aspects of Manchester United's performance this season. Typically, such evaluations led by Brailsford in other sports have taken around four days to complete. However, United insists there is no strict timeline for this process.
Ten Hag, who has one year left on his contract, added a significant achievement to his tenure by securing the FA Cup with a surprising 2-1 victory over Manchester City on Saturday. Despite this success, he started his holiday uncertain about his future at Old Trafford.
INEOS's assessment includes considering potential replacements for Ten Hag. Among the names being considered are Thomas Tuchel, Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Frank, and Kieran McKenna, although McKenna is expected to remain at Ipswich Town. Gareth Southgate and Roberto De Zerbi are also on the list of possible successors.
Ten Hag faces intense scrutiny after a disappointing Premier League season, with United finishing eighth, their lowest position in the top flight since 1990. Additionally, their Champions League campaign ended prematurely as they finished bottom of their group and exited European competition before Christmas.
Despite these setbacks, sources suggest that INEOS has not completely ruled out the possibility of retaining Ten Hag for the next season. However, insiders close to the 54-year-old Dutchman believe he could still face dismissal, especially since he has not received a definitive assurance from either Ratcliffe or Brailsford following the FA Cup victory.
Complicating the decision is the ongoing assembly of INEOS's football leadership team. New technical director Jason Wilcox has already assumed his role, but new CEO Omar Berrada and incoming sporting director Dan Ashworth are still on gardening leave from Manchester City and Newcastle United, respectively, and will not start until mid-July.
While Ten Hag's future remains a hot topic at Old Trafford, Manchester United is also actively preparing for the summer transfer window, which opens on June 14. The club is linked with several potential signings to bolster the squad for the upcoming season.
The FA Cup triumph has undoubtedly provided a boost to Ten Hag's chances of staying. However, the eighth-place finish in the Premier League casts a shadow over his achievements. This contrast highlights the complex situation the club faces in determining the best path forward.
In recent weeks, Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna had been heavily rumored as a potential replacement for Ten Hag. However, reports now suggest that McKenna is in advanced talks to sign a new contract with Ipswich, likely removing him from consideration.
Meanwhile, United's management is keen to capitalize on the transfer window to strengthen the team. The club's pursuit of new talent and strategic planning for the next season are seen as critical steps in regaining their competitive edge in the Premier League and European competitions.
