Two and a half weeks after United’s FA Cup final victory over Manchester City, it was officially announced that Erik ten Hag would remain as manager at Old Trafford following a comprehensive end-of-season review.
The Dutch manager was under significant pressure after Manchester United finished eighth in the Premier League, the club’s worst league position ever. INEOS, the club’s owners, reportedly discussed potential replacements for ten Hag with several managers, including Thomas Tuchel and Mauricio Pochettino.
Despite these considerations, both ten Hag and the club decided to continue their partnership. At The Times CEO Summit, INEOS owner Jim Ratcliffe explained their decision.
When asked about their confidence in ten Hag, Ratcliffe succinctly stated, “Erik? Because he’s a good coach. He performed exceptionally at Ajax and had a stint at Bayern Munich…” He was then interrupted by a question about the coach’s role in a team’s success.
Ratcliffe elaborated, “People often think the coach is the most critical factor, akin to the era of Alex Ferguson. However, during the 11 seasons at Manchester United, we’ve had several competent coaches without success.
The issue cannot be solely attributed to the coach. It’s about the environment they work in. Our focus is on management, practices, and the quality of people involved — aspects that need attention at Manchester United, just as in any other business.”
Ratcliffe’s comments echoed his recent interview with Bloomberg, where he said the coach “isn’t the central issue at Manchester United.” He added, “It’s a sports club that needs competitiveness and intensity, but also a supportive environment because we are dealing with young players. Historically, the club hasn’t provided such an environment.”
Erik ten Hag, speaking to Dutch broadcaster NOS during the Euro 2024 match between England and Serbia, addressed his future, stating, “Manchester United and I still need to finalize a new contract.
This isn’t straightforward; there is much to discuss. United told me they spoke with Thomas Tuchel, but they ultimately chose me.” He confirmed a meeting with club officials in Ibiza to discuss his plans, noting, “Manchester United disrupted my holiday; they came to Ibiza to meet me.” He added, “INEOS took their time. They are new to football; it’s customary to review the season. They spoke with several candidates.
In Holland, this approach is unheard of; in England, it’s different. As in any organization, a thorough evaluation is sensible. Conclusions were drawn from that process. The new leadership is experiencing football for the first time.”
Overall, the situation at Manchester United highlights the complexities of club management and the delicate balance between managerial stability, performance evaluation, and the evolving dynamics within a top-tier football club.
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