Support Grows for Erik ten Hag Amid Man United Hierarchy's Indecision on Manager's Future

Erik ten Hag still has prominent figures within Manchester United's new football hierarchy backing him, in what is the first major test of the club’s new structure. Although the Dutch coach is in real danger of being sacked during a final review this week, the FA Cup victory has strengthened his case and bolstered arguments from influential decision-makers that he should stay.

Representatives of United have already spoken to the camps of Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Tuchel, Kieran McKenna, and Thomas Frank in preparation for the possibility that Ten Hag is sacked. While there is admiration for McKenna, there is debate about whether it is too soon for him to make the leap. He is currently seen as more likely to go to Brighton if he leaves Ipswich Town. Meanwhile, Frank is considered well below Pochettino and Tuchel in the pecking order.

There is an awareness among the INEOS hierarchy that sacking Ten Hag would be an unpopular decision among the fanbase, especially after Saturday’s victory over Manchester City. The club’s football figures aim to make a calculated and holistic decision in the sophisticated new manner they plan to run the club. Much of the discussion informing this week’s final review goes beyond purely football results. While it is not accurate to say the structure is “split” on either Ten Hag’s fate or his potential replacement, the leadership is thoroughly examining every aspect to make the most informed decision possible.

Ten Hag still has influential backers in United's new hierarchy
- one argument is that this is like Arteta season
- still real danger he'll be sacked this week
- first big test for INEOS structure amid fan mood
- McKenna currently expected for Brightonhttps://t.co/TEd5R41hrd

— Miguel Delaney (@MiguelDelaney) May 26, 2024

Saturday's victory is seen as potentially changing the situation.

One argument is that this season is similar to Mikel Arteta’s first full campaign at Arsenal, where they finished eighth amid numerous changes. There has been sympathy for Ten Hag due to injuries and other distractions. However, a highly prominent voice has insisted that a change is necessary, believing Ten Hag could be responsible for some of the main issues. For example, there have been questions about training practices related to injuries.

Additionally, questions have arisen about the performance of players signed, with recruitment being a primary issue that INEOS wants to overhaul.

Sir Dave Brailsford, who was seen walking out with Sir Jim Ratcliffe when the minority owner evaded questions on Ten Hag in the Wembley mixed zone, is understood to be a vocal supporter of Gareth Southgate. This support may actually help save Ten Hag for now, as it is politically challenging to secure the England manager this summer. If the national team reaches the quarter-finals of Euro 2024, it would mean the manager joining up with pre-season very late.

This situation also reflects that the INEOS football structure is not yet finalized, as they are still waiting for Dan Ashworth to arrive from Newcastle United, a move that has already proven highly controversial.

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