Erik ten Hag Retained Amidst Mockery from Simon Jordan
Manchester United’s decision to stick by Erik ten Hag after end-of-season review has been mocked by Simon Jordan. The Red Devils confirmed Ten Hag would remain as head coach as they abandoned ongoing search for new manager.
The Premier League giants are now discussing new contract with Dutchman. They had a list of potential candidates to replace Ten Hag after an underwhelming season at Old Trafford. Despite finishing eighth in the Premier League, United managed to qualify for the Europa League by winning the FA Cup at Wembley.
United’s surprise victory in final against Manchester City is believed to have strengthened Ten Hag’s case. Jordan took to social media to ridicule Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS after their decision to stick by Ten Hag. “That must strike terror into hearts of all the major Premier League teams” he said sarcastically on X.
“It’s clearly evident #mufc are going in the right direction,” Jordan added. He signed his remark off with a lying face emoji. “I’m pretty sure it didn’t need supposed review to stick with what you started with.”
Critics Weigh In on United’s Decision
On Wednesday morning, former Sky Sports host Richard Keys labelled the decision shambles. Keys claimed Ten Hag had only been given his vote of confidence due to lack of managerial options as Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Frank and Thomas Tuchel were initially viewed as potential successors.
Tuchel distanced himself from role after talks with Ratcliffe. “It’s hardly a vote of confidence is it? ‘You can stay because no-one wants to work for us.’ I told you nothing would change under Sunny Jim. What shambles,” Keys posted.
Manchester United concluded that Ten Hag 54, was the best man for job. United officials want to see how Ten Hag operates under new structure. This structure is aimed at ensuring his success. Considerations for United’s uneven campaign included an ever-growing injury list and teething problems with new signings.
These factors also contributed to INEOS’ decision. Omar Berrada is due to arrive from Manchester City as chief executive on July 13. Jason Wilcox has joined as technical director. Talks are ongoing to bring Dan Ashworth from Newcastle as sporting director.
Discussions with Ten Hag are thought to have been positive. Both club and manager aligned. Talks on contract extension have opened. Two of Manchester United’s top six rivals Chelsea and Liverpool are starting afresh with new managers Enzo Maresca and Arne Slot respectively.
Erik ten Hag’s team has been hampered by injuries, leading the Dutchman to field 14 different center-back partnerships this season. (Reuters)
Meanwhile Pep Guardiola hinted that next season could be his last at Manchester City. Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta and Tottenham’s Ange Postecoglou prepare for upcoming season.
