Manchester United has made the bold decision to sack Erik ten Hag, regardless of the outcome in the upcoming FA Cup final against Manchester City. This move mirrors a similar situation in 2016 when Louis van Gaal was let go despite winning the FA Cup.
The decision to change managers is seen as a significant move by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his allies. This comes after Ineos agreed to take a minority stake in the club last December, thereby assuming control over football operations. The club appointed Ten Hag two years ago but felt compelled to act following an eighth-place finish in this season's Premier League table - their lowest since 1990.
United's struggles throughout this season have led to dwindling faith in Ten Hag's leadership. Despite having one last shot at qualifying for Europe when they face City, United’s hierarchy does not want their decision swayed by one game’s outcome.
Potential replacements under consideration
Ten Hag faces an uphill task of ensuring that his players are not distracted by speculations surrounding his position. Meanwhile, United will soon shift its focus towards finding a suitable replacement for him.
Potential replacements include Thomas Tuchel, Mauricio Pochettino, Kieran McKenna from Ipswich Town, England’s Gareth Southgate, Graham Potter and Brentford manager Thomas Frank. Whoever takes over will need to adapt quickly into the new structure being implemented at United.
New structure at Manchester United for next season
Ratcliffe's close advisers include Sir Dave Brailsford, acting chief executive Jean-Claude Blanc and technical director Jason Wilcox. Omar Berrada is set to take over as chief executive with Dan Ashworth stepping into the role of sporting director.
Thomas Tuchel is currently seen as the frontrunner for the position. However, it is understood that United have held preliminary talks with Pochettino and representatives of McKenna, who has also been targeted by Chelsea and Brighton.
This decision marks a significant turning point in Manchester United history. The club's management is clearly focused on long-term success rather than short-term victories. It remains to be seen how this bold move will shape the future of one of football’s most iconic clubs.
