Ten Hag to remain as Manchester United manager
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By Martin Graham | 12th Jun 2024Erik ten Hag will continue as Manchester Unitedâs manager following a post-season review by the clubâs board. Talks are currently underway to extend his contract, which is entering its final season. The review was initiated immediately after the FA Cup final, where United secured a 2-1 victory over Manchester City at Wembley. Despite reports suggesting Ten Hag would be sacked regardless of the outcome, the win influenced the boardâs positive approach during the review.
Constructive conversations and contract extensionâConstructive conversationsâ have taken place between Ten Hag and the club, considering all possibilities and ultimately deciding to retain the 54-year-old Dutchman. Ten Hag is pleased with the decision, although there were indications of his frustration over the time taken for the review. United believes two weeks is a reasonable period for a thorough assessment, especially under new ownership. Discussions included other potential candidates like Thomas Tuchel, Mauricio Pochettino, Graham Potter, Thomas Frank, Roberto de Zerbi, and Gareth Southgate, but none materialized into serious considerations.
Challenges and achievementsTen Hag, who spent his holiday in Ibiza, faced a challenging season with United finishing eighth in the Premier League, their lowest position in the era. Injuries plagued the team with 45 recorded cases, affecting performance. Appointed in summer 2022, Ten Hag is Unitedâs fifth permanent manager since Sir Alex Fergusonâs retirement. His tenure at Ajax was marked by three Eredivisie titles and two Dutch Cups. In his debut season at United, he led the team to third place in the Premier League, and EFL Cup and FA Cup finals, winning the EFL Cup in February 2023 but losing the FA Cup final to Manchester City.
The 2023-24 season was difficult, including an early Champions League exit and a poor start with six defeats in the first ten games. Despite the FA Cup win, the team struggled towards the end of the season, winning only five of their last twelve matches. With new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffeâs Ineos group acquiring a 27.7% stake in December, a review of football operations was conducted by new director Sir David Brailsford. Ratcliffe hinted at retaining Ten Hag in January, criticizing the clubâs environment for its lack of managerial success over the past decade. With Ten Hag confirmed to stay, United can now focus on rebuilding and exploring the transfer market. Last summer, he was supported with the signings of Andre Onana, Mason Mount, and Rasmus Hojlund. Off-field issues, including Mason Greenwoodâs loan to Getafe, Antonyâs leave due to allegations, and Jadon Sanchoâs squad exclusion, added to the challenges faced by Ten Hag during his tenure.
Martin Graham is an MFF sports writer
