The future of Erik ten Hag is in doubt at Manchester United, but now Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been quizzed over what will happen with the Dutchman.
For Manchester United, the managerial situation has been uncertain for almost the entirety of 2024. Erik ten Hag only managed an eighth-place finish last season which led to Ineos conducting a lengthy review.
However, an FA Cup triumph papered over many cracks and eventually, it was decided that Ten Hag would be given more time – with much of the blame being placed on the Glazers.
After losing 3-0 to Tottenham last week though, it seems patience has run out with reports suggesting Ineos had given Ten Hag this week to save himself.
But after United drew 3-3 against Porto, pressure remains heavy. Now, Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been asked about the situation and whether Ten Hag will be losing his position as United manager.
What Sir Jim Ratcliffe said about Erik ten Hag
As rumours heat up over Ineos potentially replacing Ten Hag, now Ratcliffe has answered questions about what Ineos will do.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Ratcliffe explained that he will not be making the decision, instead, his team of experts will be.
“I don’t want to answer that question. I like Erik. I think he’s a very good coach but at the end of the day it’s not my call, it’s the management team that’s running Manchester United that have to decide how we best run the team in many different respects.
“But that team that’s running Manchester United has only been together since June or July. They weren’t there in January, February, March or April – Omar [Berrada] and Dan Ashworth, they only arrived in July.
“They’ve only been there, you can count it in weeks almost. They’ve not been there a long time so they need to take stock and make some sensible decisions.”
Rather ominously, Ratcliffe ended by explaining that it is very clear that United have not been good enough.
“Our objective is very clear: we want to take Manchester United back to where it should be, and it’s not there yet, obviously. That’s very clear.”
This does not sound good for Ten Hag and it has been reported that Ratcliffe will be at Villa Park this Sunday, which will only further add to the speculation and pressure.
Manchester United have replacement options
While Ten Hag remains in a job, and we would love nothing more than for him to beat Aston Villa this weekend – reports are already making it sound as though options are being considered to succeed Ten Hag.
Thomas Tuchel is one manager United are reportedly ready to re-open talks with should it come to it this weekend.
Meanwhile, Fulham boss Marco Silva is also viewed as an option. His performances with the Cottagers this season so far has been impressive.
Alternatively, there is a chance Ruud van Nistelrooy is afforded the same chance Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had and see the season out as an interim manager for United.
Whatever happens, the situation will become a lot clearer after Sunday’s game.
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