Erik ten Hag expressed confidence in his position at Manchester United, despite the team having its worst season in 34 years, finishing eighth in the Premier League—their lowest finish in the modern era.
Speculation arose on Friday that he could be sacked even if United won the FA Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley Stadium.
However, ten Hag revealed that he has already discussed the season with new co-owner Jim Ratcliffe and does not need further reassurances about his future.
When asked about his position, ten Hag stated, “It’s not necessary, we’re planning for next season.” He also mentioned that he will start his vacation on Sunday.
Potential replacements for ten Hag, if he were to be dismissed, include Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Tuchel, Kieran McKenna, Thomas Frank, and England manager Gareth Southgate. British businessman Jim Ratcliffe, who bought a 27.7% stake in United in February, had tasked ten Hag with securing Champions League qualification—a goal he failed to achieve.
Past Manchester United managers such as David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, Jose Mourinho, and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer were dismissed after failing to secure Champions League spots.
For ten Hag, the best possible outcome would be for United to win the FA Cup and qualify for the Europa League.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola expressed sympathy for ten Hag, who has faced numerous injuries, including key defenders Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw, who are unavailable for the final.
Guardiola acknowledged the pressure ten Hag is under to win a trophy. He commented, “When it comes to major clubs like United and City, failing to win brings a lot of grief.
There is no mystery about it. Even though we have been successful, I would be in a lot of trouble if we did not win.”
Ten Hag’s future at Manchester United remains a topic of intense scrutiny. Despite the challenges and underperformance this season, his discussions with Ratcliffe indicate a forward-looking approach, planning for next season rather than dwelling on the past.
As the FA Cup final looms, the outcome could significantly impact his tenure, but ten Hag remains resolute and focused on the task at hand.
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