The clouds of uncertainty are now sure to follow Manchester United for the next two weeks after two consecutive draws in what were believed to be “judgment games” for Erik ten Hag.
The draws against FC Porto and Aston Villa were two performances that were polar opposite of each other in pretty much every way.
While that might hint at the fact that this team has no identity, it also leaves just about enough room for Erik ten Hag to make a case that he deserves time.
After all, the players seem to be still playing for him, fighting tooth and nail to get results without which the Porto game, at least, would have been a definite loss.
Amidst all the rumours and uncertainty of an Erik ten Hag sack, Fabrizio Romano has shared the latest on the top name linked to the job.
Fabrizio Romano on Simone Inzaghi to Man Utd
The rumour mill went into overdrive recently after it was reported that the job of Man Utd manager was offered to current Inter boss Simone Inzaghi.
As per the reports, Inzaghi declined United’s audacious offer of letting him take over in the international break.
He is in the middle of another likely title race, with Inter sitting in second position after seven games, just two points behind Scott McTominay’s Napoli.
Therefore, it was understandable that he would reject the offer but there is no smoke without fire so it was fair to assume that United are, at the very least, interested.
Now, Romano has set the record straight on the links, leaving the door open for a future approach.
He said (via his YouTube channel): “I can tell you that there is absolutely nothing going on. No chance. Simone Inzaghi is, and will be Inter manager for the season.
“There is no doubt or discussion. It’s not about money or United, Inzaghi is working for Inter, and Inter working with him.
“That’s it for this season. Nothing to mention but in the future, we will see. Never say never. For the moment, I can guarantee there is nothing ongoing.”
The ideal way forward
For starters, it is worth mentioning that the noise regarding Ten Hag has been all external and there has been no hint from the club that a decision could be imminent.
Having said that, this is a results business and so far, they have been far from good enough under the Dutchman.
If Inzaghi is, indeed United’s first-choice target, then the ideal way forward would be to install a caretaker manager for the season and approach him in the summer.
However, it is unlikely that Ineos write off their first season at the club completely which would be the message if they appoint a caretaker for the season.
Furthermore, Inzaghi, as good as he has done at Inter, doesn’t speak the language and his style of play doesn’t exactly scream “ideal fit” for the current Man Utd squad.
It looks like this is just a move to explore potential options ahead of a decision Ineos may have to make if results continue to deteriorate.
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