After an extensive review lasting more than two weeks, new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford have reportedly concluded that Erik ten Hag is the right man to be Manchester United manager. However, despite this seemingly positive news, it’s hard to ignore the fact that the Dutchman has been left waiting for over three months for a clear show of support. Ratcliffe’s acquisition of a 27.7% stake in the club was finalized back in February, yet the British billionaire has been evasive when it comes to openly endorsing Ten Hag. Even after the FA Cup win, where United triumphed over Manchester City, Ratcliffe’s acknowledgment of Ten Hag’s efforts was limited to a simple handshake, in stark contrast to the warm embrace extended to City’s manager, Pep Guardiola. This lack of overt support from the club’s new co-owner has created an atmosphere of uncertainty surrounding Ten Hag’s future at Old Trafford.
In the aftermath of the FA Cup victory, news began circulating of United’s reservations about committing to Ten Hag for the long term. Brailsford’s approval of conversations with alternative managerial options such as Thomas Tuchel, Mauricio Pochettino, and others further fueled speculation about the Dutchman’s position. Despite Ten Hag’s defiant post-match declarations about seeking success elsewhere if not supported at United, the underlying doubts persist. The lack of communication from the club’s hierarchy regarding Ten Hag’s status only added to the air of uncertainty surrounding the managerial situation.
With concerns lingering about Ten Hag’s ability to steer the team towards success, there are indications that any early-season setbacks could prompt INEOS to make a change at the managerial helm. The potential appointment of Gareth Southgate has been discussed as a viable alternative, given his success with the English national team. However, Southgate’s reluctance to engage in talks about club management while focusing on his duties with England poses a logistical challenge for United. The possibility of approaching Southgate in the future, should the need arise, remains an option that could alter the course of United’s managerial direction.
As Ten Hag prepares to lead United into the upcoming season, the specter of doubt looms large over his tenure. Every setback or moment of underperformance will invite scrutiny and speculation regarding his future at the club. While the recent decision to retain Ten Hag provides temporary clarity, the underlying uncertainty surrounding his position suggests that his time at United remains precarious. The need for immediate success and a consistent run of positive results will be paramount for Ten Hag to secure his long-term future with the club. Until then, the threat of managerial change and the presence of potential replacements on the periphery will continue to cast a shadow over Manchester United’s uncertain managerial landscape.
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