By Mick Ruby | Twitter: @MickRuby_MURTV 

YouTube Channel /@mufcrealisttv

Erik ten Hag's position at Manchester United hangs in the balance amidst a tumultuous season, with the club facing the unprecedented possibility of finishing below 7th place in the Premier League for the first time.

After a promising first season that saw a third-place Premier League finish and ending a six-year trophy drought, Ten Hag's second season has been marred by injuries, off-field controversies, and inconsistent performances on the pitch.

Despite their struggles, United's last hope for silverware this season lies in the FA Cup, with a semi-final match looming this weekend.

INEOS's Vision: Pursuit of Excellence  

 

Sir Jim Ratcliffe's recent acquisition of a 25% stake in the club has positioned him at the helm of Manchester United's football operations. INEOS aims to rejuvenate the club's winning culture by appointing top-tier professionals to key roles within the organization.

The forthcoming footballing restructure, set to roll out in July 2024, will see Omar Berrada as CEO, Dan Ashworth as Director of Football, and Jason Wilcox as Technical Director. The future of Erik ten Hag under Ratcliffe's leadership remains uncertain beyond this summer, with significant executive-level changes already underway.

Insiders suggest that further restructuring is on the horizon, led by Sir Dave Brailsford, who has completed a comprehensive review of football operations at Carrington and the Mayfair headquarters. Notably, John Murtagh, the Sporting Director, has departed, and Darren Fletcher's future as Technical Director remains uncertain, with potential changes also expected in the COO and CFO roles.

Ten Hag's Tenuous Tenure  

 

Amid mounting speculation about Ten Hag's future, insiders have hinted at waning confidence in his leadership. His tenure seems intrinsically linked to Manchester United's dwindling Champions League aspirations.

While names like Gareth Southgate, Roberto De Zerbi, Julian Nagelsmann, Thomas Tuchel, and Graham Potter have been touted as potential replacements, none are considered best-in-class. Moreover, parting ways with Ten Hag could cost the club £10 million.

INEOS appears to be planning with Ten Hag for the foreseeable future, with his performance set to be evaluated through 2025.

Potential Successors: A Strategic Approach  

 

From a football operations standpoint, INEOS may opt for an alternative to Ten Hag without incurring substantial financial penalties, aligning with financial fair play guidelines. Elite managers set to be available in 2025, such as Xabi Alonso, Pep Guardiola, and Carlo Ancelotti, are reportedly on INEOS's radar. Additionally, Zinedine Zidane's close ties with INEOS Sport CEO Jean-Claude Blanc make him a compelling candidate, given his illustrious track record with Real Madrid.

Playing for the Sack?  

 

Ten Hag's second season has been tumultuous, with tactical changes failing to resonate with players and fans alike, resulting in a record injury crisis and poor performances on the pitch.

Questions about Ten Hag's suitability for the role are mounting, especially with the team's defensive vulnerabilities and inconsistent offensive displays.

Recent reports suggest that Ten Hag could be eyeing a return to Europe, with Dutch football expert Mike Verweij linking him to the vacant Ajax managerial role.

The atmosphere at Old Trafford has shifted dramatically, with Ten Hag losing some of the once-unanimous support he enjoyed.

As the season draws to a close, Ten Hag's future remains uncertain. While a trophy could bolster his case, Sir Jim Ratcliffe's intentions remain enigmatic. Clarity on the situation is expected soon.

This article first appeared on Mufc Realist TV.

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