It is a day shy of a week since David Ornstein supplied news of Erik ten Hag’s position at Manchester United.
The Dutch tactician will remain the manager at Old Trafford, with negotiations underway ahead of a potential contractual extension.
The prospect of a new deal is a sign of faith and backing for the former Ajax chief, following a period of intense speculation and media scrutiny that commenced in the run-in to the FA Cup final.
With United preparing for a pre-season stint in Norway against Rosenborg, the 54-year-old took time to provide punditry duties ahead of England’s Euro 2024 opener against Serbia.
His analysis was well received – as was his willingness to discuss his situation following his side’s memorable 2-1 victory over Pep Guardiola’s side at Wembley.
Observing an end-of-season review
Following a prolonged Ineos end-of-season review, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his best-in-class backroom setup deliberated on the football club, the facilities and the managerial situation.
With daily reports suggesting interactions with several potential candidates, supporters observed names from Thomas Tuchel to Gareth Southgate daily.
Inevitably, the group opted to retain the manager, with club officials travelling to Ibiza to inform Ten Hag of their decision.
Speaking with Dutch broadcaster NOS before Southgate’s side began their tournament, the Haaksbergen was happy to address the situation.
“Never a dull moment in Manchester United”, he told the host – a fitting line for anyone associated with the football club.
When pressed about the details surrounding the interaction in Ibiza, the FA-Cup-winning manager appeared appreciative of the situation. “I think, as in every organisation, that seems very sensible that you evaluate, and that is why you draw conclusions – Manchester United did that too.
“The management, the new management, they are in football for the first time – they have taken an extensive amount of time to evaluate the situation.”
A scattergun list of alternative names
While it is understandable for the hierarchy to assess their options and evaluate potential improvements, the nature of the differentials touted is perplexing.
From Tuchel to Southgate, former Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino and outgoing Brighton chief Roberto De Zerbi joined Ipswich kingpin Kieran McKenna and Brentford’s Thomas Frank as potential replacements for Ten Hag.
One would be forgiven for struggling to connect the dots.
Regarding the highly-publicised managerial hunt, the Dutchman did not shy away from the conversation. “I don’t think that is a secret because everyone has been able to experience it – that they have spoken to several candidates.”
He continued, “But in the end, they came to the conclusion that they had the best coach.”
A positive future
Throughout a traumatic campaign, United registered their lowest final Premier League finish and fell to an underwhelming group-stage exit from the Champions League.
The squad was plagued with endless injuries – succumbing to the highest figure for individual issues.
Despite that, a stellar performance in London against Manchester City supplied the sweetest ending, guaranteeing European football next season.
Ten Hag’s current deal runs until June 2025, with an option to extend by 12 months. With negotiations progressing, Ineos view the manager as their option to steer the club towards its hopeful future.
Are you happy with the decision to keep the manager? Let us know in the comments below or across our socials.
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