Man United yet to decide Erik ten Hag's future - sources

Posted Wednesday, May 29, 2024 by ESPN

Erik ten Hag is being made to wait before learning whether he will continue as Manchester United manager, with sources telling ESPN that a decision on the Dutchman's future is not expected imminently.

Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS team have started an end-of-season review which will look at every aspect of United's performance this season.

It will include a focus on whether Ten Hag, who has a year left on his contract, should stay on as manager or be replaced.

A source has told ESPN that INEOS reviews led by director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford in other sports have typically taken around four days to complete, although United insist there is no time limit.

Ten Hag strengthened his case to stay on as United boss by lifting the FA Cup on Saturday with a surprise 2-1 win over Manchester City.

But he began a holiday on Sunday still in the dark about whether he will keep his job.

Erik ten Hag has won two trophies in his two seasons at Manchester United.

Doubts about his suitability for the role have led INEOS to sound out potential replacements including Thomas Tuchel, Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Frank and Kieran McKenna. A source has told ESPN that McKenna is now set to stay at Ipswich Town. United also hold an interest in Gareth Southgate and Roberto De Zerbi.

Ten Hag is under pressure after a miserable Premier League season which saw United finish eighth -- their lowest placing in England's top-flight since 1990.

United also finished bottom of their Champions League group as they exited European competition before Christmas.

Sources have told ESPN that INEOS have not ruled out starting next season with Ten Hag in charge, although sources close to the 54-year-old believe he could still be sacked after failing to get a cast-iron guarantee from either Ratcliffe or Brailsford following victory over City at Wembley.

The decision has been made more complicated because INEOS are still waiting to complete their football leadership team.

New technical director Jason Wilcox has arrived but new CEO Omar Berrada is on gardening leave from Man City and is not expected to start until July 13. Incoming sporting director Dan Ashworth is still on gardening leave from Newcastle United.