Man United Boss on Thin Ice: Ferdinand Calls for Manager Sack Regardless of FA Cup Final

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand believes Erik ten Hag‘s time at the club could be coming to an end, regardless of the outcome of the upcoming FA Cup final against Manchester City.

A Season of Disappointment

Despite ending the Premier League season with a win, Manchester United’s campaign was far from successful. They finished a disappointing eighth, missing out on European football for the first time since 2015, after a string of defeats throughout the season.

Ten Hag’s position is reportedly under review by the club’s ownership group, INEOS, following the underwhelming campaign.

Ferdinand Questions Ten Hag’s Tactics

Ferdinand, speaking on his YouTube channel, expressed his belief that Ten Hag will not be back next season.

While acknowledging the impact of injuries, Ferdinand pointed to a lack of tactical direction under Ten Hag as a major factor in the team’s struggles.

“I’m not saying that’s what I want, I’m just saying what I believe is going to happen, and I believe that the club are going to look elsewhere I think.

I don’t think [winning the FA Cup] changes anything in the eyes of INEOS. I’ve not spoken to anyone there, this is just an assumption, this is what I think.”

Speaking further he said:

“Put injuries aside, the performances of the team have been so bad. Most teams have had injuries, maybe not to the same extent as Man United,” he added.

“I keep saying this, I sound like a broken record: performance level can drop but your style of football should be there to identify. It’s not. I don’t know what we are. I don’t know who we are. Who are we as a team? What are we?”

“We rely [on Bruno Fernandes]. And that would be an alarm bell for me. The moment Bruno came out of the team, the fall-off of that team was a joke. The worst performances I’ve seen in many, many years against Crystal Palace.”

Who’s Next for Manchester United?

With Ten Hag’s future uncertain, speculation has already begun about his potential replacements. Thomas Tuchel and Gareth Southgate are reportedly frontrunners for the job.

Ferdinand, however, believes United should prioritize a manager with a strong tactical philosophy.

“If I were Man United, I’d be looking for the best coach around,” Ferdinand concluded. “Someone who can not only communicate with the players but also implement a clear playing style and get the best out of both the young and experienced players in the squad. We need a manager who can create a cohesive unit, a real team.”

The FA Cup final against Manchester City could be Ten Hag’s last game in charge. Only time will tell if he can win a trophy in his first season and potentially alter his fate at Old Trafford.