Erik Ten Hag says he has lots to play for at Ajax still despite Champions League exit so United won’t be able to get him early

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If results had been different, Manchester United could have been drawn against Ajax in Friday’s Champions League draw. Ralf Rangnick v Erik Ten Hag would have been truly fascinating.

But Tuesday night’s matches went against both teams. Manchester United were beaten by Atletico Madrid at Old Trafford. Meanwhile Ajax also lost 1-0 at home to Benfica.

The Mail reported last week Ten Hag was keen on the Manchester United job – but don’t expect him to come to the club early.

In theory it would be good timing for United. There is very little to play for this season, out of all cups, and only a slim chance of a top four place. It’s a real pathetic turn of circumstances for the club after entering the season with such high hopes.

With a two and a half week break until the next game, its possible there could be movement over the manager situation – it just won’t involve Ten Hag leaving Ajax before their season is done.

Plenty to play for

Speaking after Ajax’s elimination, Ten Hag told De Telegraaf he is excited for what lies ahead, with the club locked in a close Eredivisie title battle with PSV, and also facing the same side in the KNVB Cup Final.

Ten Hag made clear his immediate plans are with Ajax: “Picking up my team is not that difficult. This is the first final and there are nine more finals to come. It could be a nice end to the season.”

It’s evident he is looking forward to seeing this season out and will not entertain any approach to join United early, with nothing to play for at Old Trafford.

Ajax’s night against Benfica was one of frustration, where they had 69 per cent possession, 16 shots at goal, and failed to score, to be undone by a second half strike from lethal forward Darwin Nunez.

Ten Hag added: “I actually have to give my team a very big compliment. We did a lot of good, almost everything. But we didn’t score. If we continue to reach this level, it could be a very good season. But then we have to keep supplying this energy.”

United have to choose whether to appoint Ten Hag or Mauricio Pochettino. Both men have now suffered Champions League last 16 defeats.

Ajax’s final game of the season is on May 15, one week before United’s ends. It’s likely there could be movement around that time, if an announcement is not made earlier.