Erik ten Hag is facing mounting pressure as Manchester United’s disappointing season continues, with club leaders already considering potential replacements for the Dutch manager.
United’s inconsistent form has left them with only four wins in all competitions, placing them in a challenging 12th position in the Premier League.
While United recently managed to string together a four-game unbeaten run, the overall campaign has been a struggle. Ten Hag narrowly held onto his role after a recent meeting with the club’s hierarchy during the October international break, yet it seems his position remains fragile. United’s decision-makers are reportedly seeking alternatives, especially if the team falters again.
Initially, Thomas Tuchel appeared to be a strong candidate for the job. However, with his recent commitment to the England national team role, United’s leadership has begun exploring other options. According to sources, the club has conducted “secret talks” with several potential candidates, sending a delegation led by Chief Executive Omar Berrada to Barcelona to meet with Xavi. Xavi, who departed from Barcelona over the summer, has expressed reluctance to take on another role within Spain, making him an intriguing option for United.
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Sporting Lisbon’s manager, Ruben Amorim, is another name on United’s shortlist. Amorim is highly regarded across Europe, but United would likely face competition from their rivals, Manchester City, who view him as a potential successor to Pep Guardiola. With Sporting’s Hugo Viana set to join City as Director of Football next season, the pathway for Amorim’s move could open doors for United.
Other noteworthy candidates include former Borussia Dortmund manager Edin Terzic and Brentford’s Thomas Frank, who has garnered attention for his engaging style of play. Frank, however, recently saw his Brentford side defeated by Ten Hag’s United, but remains a favored choice at Old Trafford. Alongside these, names like Gareth Southgate, Graham Potter, and former United assistant Kieran McKenna are also rumored to be in the mix.
Concerns about United’s trajectory remain, especially considering Ten Hag’s substantial summer budget of £200 million. However, the manager remains optimistic about his future with the club. “In football, you must prove yourself every year, and if you’re not winning, criticism is expected. We are seasoned enough to handle it,” Ten Hag stated before United’s match against Fenerbahce. “We believe we’re heading in the right direction, and if we stay the course, we’ll reach our goals.”
Despite his optimism, the pressure is on, with expectations at United remaining high. Fans and the club hierarchy alike will be closely watching the next few matches as Ten Hag aims to steer United back on track.
