Rio Ferdinand suggests that there’s a possibility Mikel Arteta could transition to Manchester United if Erik ten Hag is either dismissed or joins Bayern Munich.
The Dutchman has faced scrutiny this season due to an underwhelming campaign, with Manchester United already suffering ten losses and now facing a significant challenge to secure a place in the Champions League.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe faces a pivotal decision regarding the future of Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, with Rio Ferdinand suggesting that Mikel Arteta could emerge as a potential candidate to replace him.
There have been speculations that Sir Jim Ratcliffe might opt for a change in the dugout. Ferdinand believes that if Ten Hag departs or becomes a candidate for the managerial role at Bayern Munich, Arsenal’s manager Arteta could potentially make a move to Old Trafford.
Ferdinand “100%” Mikel Arteta would join Man Utd
Speaking on the Vibe with FIVE podcast, the former defender said: “Arteta would leave Arsenal to come to Man United, 100 per cent. No one is saying it’s happening, but if Man United, in their wildest dreams, said ‘Do you know what, Erik ten Hag, thank you’, or Erik ten Hag has been poached by Bayern Munich and he goes there, and Man United say ‘Right, top of our list, Mikel Arteta’, Arteta is going in [to Arsenal] and saying ‘Listen lads, it’s been emotional, but I’ve got to move and got to go.’
Arteta, aged 41, has been at the helm in north London since taking over from Unai Emery in 2019. He achieved success by winning the FA Cup in his debut season with the Gunners and has overseen Premier League title challenges over the last two seasons.
Arteta is under contract until 2025. Additionally, he has previously been linked with a move to Barcelona, with the Catalan giants poised to replace Xavi in the upcoming summer.
Elsewhere, Ratcliffe has already expressed his opinion on Ten Hag’s future and does not seem inclined to part ways with him anytime soon. “It’s not switching on a light switch,” he said. “It’s not just about a new coach. It’s not a simple fix or a short-term fix,” the club’s new minority owner added. “We have to walk to the right solution, not run to the wrong solution
“We’ve got a short-term issue, which is that we really, really want to get into the Champions League next year because it’s quite important for FFP (Financial Fair Play). But the real challenge, it’s a two to three-season challenge to get that organisation and environment right.”
Manchester United reportedly paid a £2.5 million package to Ajax for Ten Hag’s services 18 months ago. It has been rumored that it would cost £15 million to terminate his contract. The Dutchman still has a year and a half remaining on his current deal.
