BREAKING NEWS: “I am committed to finding the right person for this role before my time is up. We aim to implement significant changes this year. Erik ten Hag is not the suitable choice for this position. The right candidate has prior experience here and can solve all our issues.”
Manchester United are reportedly considering a return to discussions with a previous managerial candidate if Erik ten Hag’s tenure comes to an end. The Dutch manager’s position at Old Trafford is under increasing pressure following a string of poor performances, the latest being a heavy 3-0 defeat to Tottenham at Old Trafford.
This loss has heightened the scrutiny around Ten Hag’s ability to guide the team to success, particularly after United squandered a two-goal lead against Porto in their Europa League match, which ended in a 3-3 draw thanks to Harry Maguire’s late equalizer.
According to The Athletic, United’s leadership is adopting a “long-term view” regarding Ten Hag’s future. This implies that even if United were to lose their next Premier League fixture against Aston Villa, Ten Hag might still remain in his position, at least temporarily. During the summer, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a minority co-owner of United, alongside representatives from INEOS, had already held discussions with several potential replacements for Ten Hag.
Despite securing his position after leading United to FA Cup success, recent poor form has reignited doubts, with those previous discussions potentially resurfacing.
One of the candidates United reportedly approached over the summer was Thomas Tuchel, the former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager. However, Tuchel declined due to concerns over the club’s internal power dynamics.
With Ten Hag’s future in doubt, United could reopen talks with Tuchel, who remains without a club. Tuchel’s wealth of experience managing top European teams and his tactical expertise make him a strong candidate, though it is unclear whether he would reconsider the role.
Other names have also been linked to the position, including former Brighton and Chelsea manager Graham Potter and England manager Gareth Southgate. Both are admired for their tactical adaptability and player development skills.
Inter Milan’s Simone Inzaghi was also approached by United, but he reportedly rejected the offer, opting to stay at Inter where he has enjoyed success, including a Champions League final appearance. Additionally, Brentford’s Thomas Frank has emerged as a potential candidate, known for his ability to maximize his team’s potential with limited resources.
While several managers have been linked to the job, current assistant coach Ruud van Nistelrooy is considered the bookmakers’ favorite to replace Ten Hag. Van Nistelrooy’s familiarity with the club, combined with his growing reputation as a manager, makes him an appealing option. As United approach a critical juncture in their season, Ten Hag’s future hangs in the balance.
