Erik ten Hag, the current manager of Manchester United, is facing increasing uncertainty regarding his future with the club. As the 2023-2024 season unfolds, doubts have emerged about whether he will retain his position beyond the summer.
The skepticism is fueled by Manchester United’s underwhelming performance during Ten Hag’s second season in charge, where they currently find themselves in the sixth position in the Premier League table.
Their recent exit from the Champions League has further intensified the scrutiny on the Dutchman.
Rio Ferdinand’s Apprehensions and Evaluation
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has expressed reservations about Erik ten Hag’s managerial tenure.
Ferdinand is uncertain about Ten Hag’s chances of staying on as the manager if there isn’t a significant improvement in the club’s overall performance.
Speaking on his FIVE YouTube channel, Ferdinand highlighted concerns about the team’s style of play under Ten Hag and suggested that a change in the managerial position might be on the horizon at the end of the season.
Ferdinand emphasized that the decision regarding Ten Hag’s future would be contingent on the team’s performance towards the conclusion of the season.
If there is a noticeable upturn in form and a positive environment at the training ground, Ten Hag might have a chance of securing his position.
However, Ferdinand pointed out that with the recent changes in the club’s structure, including the arrival of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS team, many factors would need to align for Ten Hag to stay in charge.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Impact and Potential Intervention
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s arrival and the subsequent acquisition of sporting control at Old Trafford have added a layer of complexity to the situation.
While Ten Hag has expressed confidence in Ratcliffe’s belief in his managerial capabilities, Ferdinand remains skeptical. He raised concerns about the lack of a distinctive playing style under Ten Hag and suggested that the club’s hierarchy might not shy away from making significant decisions if the desired results are not achieved.
Ferdinand speculated that if Manchester United finishes the season poorly, experiencing losses and a discordant atmosphere in the dressing room, Ratcliffe and his team might not hesitate to intervene.
The former United defender emphasized that the new leadership is not likely to be swayed by media or public relations considerations but would prioritize what is in the best interest of Manchester United.
Contractual Obligations and Potential Successor
As of now, Erik ten Hag’s contract with Manchester United is set to run until the summer of 2025. Despite the uncertainties surrounding his future, Ten Hag remains determined to elevate the club’s status to compete with the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool.
Speculation has arisen regarding potential successors, with former Chelsea manager and current Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel being mentioned as a viable candidate if Ratcliffe decides to make a permanent managerial change.
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