Uncertainty looms over Erik ten Hag’s future as Manchester United manager, adding intrigue to United’s upcoming FA Cup fifth-round clash with Nottingham Forest.
Rumors suggest that Ineos has been evaluating potential replacements for the Dutchman, especially after his side’s recent home defeat against Fulham. Brighton & Hove Albion boss Roberto De Zerbi is reportedly among the candidates of interest.
United, who had maintained an unbeaten record against Fulham since 2009 prior to Saturday’s defeat, must now regroup ahead of tomorrow night’s trip to the City Ground. With the FA Cup being the only realistic chance for silverware this season, United must approach the competition with the utmost importance.
Ahead of the game, Ten Hag has confirmed that Victor Lindelof and Casemiro are both fit and available for selection. The duo, who were forced off during the defeat to Fulham, have recovered in time for the upcoming match. Casemiro, in particular, was withdrawn shortly after half-time due to a head injury, but is now cleared to play.
Erik Ten Hag bullish response about United’s backing
Erik ten Hag insists he “doesn’t care” about receiving a possible vote of confidence from new Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
The uncertainty surrounding United manager Ten Hag’s future persists after their 15th defeat of the season to Fulham, leaving them eight points adrift of the fourth Champions League qualifying spot in the Premier League table.
Ratcliffe declined to comment on Ten Hag’s tenure in recent interviews. His investment has already seen the appointment of Omar Berrada as chief executive, with Dan Ashworth reportedly lined up to join as the inaugural United sporting director.
ZIDANE potential return to management
INEOS is reportedly aiming to secure Zinedine Zidane as United’s next boss, as per reports from Manchester Evening News.
French outlet Foot Mercato says Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s camp ‘dreams’ of handing the reigns over to the Real Madrid icon, who won three successive Champions League trophies with manager of Los Blancos between 2016 and 2018.
Jean-Claude Blanc, who is part of Ratcliffe’s inner circle at United, is known to be a great admirer of Zidane. Blanc previously attempted to recruit Zidane while he was in a chief position at Paris Saint-Germain.
There are suggestions that Sir Jim Ratcliffe is not entirely convinced that Erik ten Hag is the right man to lead the club forward beyond this season. Roberto De Zerbi is among those shortlisted as potential replacements for the managerial role at Manchester United.
