According to The Sun, former Brighton and Chelsea manager Graham Potter is being lined up for a stunning return to the Premier League to replace Erik ten Hag as Manchester United manager.
Erik ten Hag is under immense pressure following a disappointing exit from the Champions League. The team suffered a 1-0 defeat against Bayern Munich in midweek, which marked their early departure from European football this season. This loss adds to Ten Hag's already shaky record of losing 12 out of his 24 games this season.
The Dutchman's position could be further jeopardized if history repeats itself in the upcoming Premier League match against Liverpool at Anfield. A repeat of March's devastating 7-0 defeat could put be the final nail in the coffin.
While he seems safe for now, his long-term job security is far from guaranteed, especially with Sir Jim Ratcliffe waiting for his £1.3 billion deal for a quarter share in the club to be ratified.
Former Chelsea man could be in the Old Trafford hot seat soon
In light of these developments, former Chelsea boss Graham Potter has emerged as a potential successor to Ten Hag. Reports suggest that Ratcliffe has held meetings with Potter and considers him as his first choice should he need to replace Ten Hag.
Potter remains unemployed since being sacked by Chelsea in April but had previously caught Ratcliffe’s eye during his time at Swansea City and Brighton & Hove Albion. Despite being linked with several roles since leaving Stamford Bridge and rejecting an offer from Stoke City recently, he remains available.
However, it should be noted that Potter isn't alone in being considered as a potential replacement for Ten Hag. Other names like former Wolves boss Julen Lopetegui are also circulating as managers with Premier League experience and success in Europe.
Erik ten Hag the victim of many a problem at United
Erik ten Hag was brought into Manchester United back in April 2022 under the impression that he would oversee a long-term project. His contract runs until June 2025 but given recent performances, he is now facing the most challenging period of his tenure.
The current United hierarchy seems to be understanding of the injury crisis that has hit the team, potentially leaving them without as many as 13 players for their match against Liverpool.
Off-pitch issues involving Jadon Sancho, Antony and Mason Greenwood, coupled with the drawn-out nature of Ratcliffe's takeover have also added to Ten Hag's woes.
As Erik ten Hag’s future at Manchester United remains uncertain due to recent poor performances and off-field issues, potential successors like Graham Potter are already being considered.
Only time will tell if a change in management is on the horizon for Manchester United.
