Man United to delay Erik ten Hag decision further - source

Posted Saturday, June 08, 2024 by ESPN

Erik ten Hag's wait to discover whether he will stay on as Manchester United manager is set to drag on into a third week, a source told ESPN.

United bosses, led by INEOS director of sport Dave Brailsford, have been conducting an end-of-season review since a victory over Manchester City in the FA Cup final last month.

There was speculation that a decision on Ten Hag's future -- a key aspect of the review -- would be communicated this week.

But with discussions still ongoing, a source told ESPN that Ten Hag has not been informed of the final decision.

A source told ESPN that United have not put a timeframe on the process and INEOS are refusing to be rushed to a conclusion.

Erik ten Hag won the FA Cup with Manchester United last season.

Ten Hag has a year left on his contract at Old Trafford, but his future is in doubt following a poor season in the Premier League.

United's eighth-place finish was their lowest placing since 1990 and they lifted the FA Cup only because of a surprise 2-1 win over City at Wembley to save the campaign.

It was Ten Hag's second trophy as manager after lifting the Carabao Cup in February 2023.

Sources told ESPN that United have sounded out possible replacements including Thomas Tuchel, Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Frank, Graham Potter, Kieran McKenna and Roberto De Zerbi.

McKenna has since signed a new long-term contract to stay at Ipswich Town.

Sources also told ESPN that United hold an interest in Gareth Southgate, although he has so far refused to consider other jobs while he continues preparations for England's campaign at Euro 2024.

A source told ESPN that Ten Hag is determined to stay on as United boss and turned down the chance to discuss the manager's job at Bayern Munich before the Bundesliga side appointed Vincent Kompany.

United's preseason schedule will begin with a friendly against Rosenborg in Norway on July 15 before heading to the United States for their summer tour.