Manchester United have now issued a message to their shortlist of managers who could possibly replace Erik ten Hag this summer.
Right now, Ten Hag’s future seems to be up in the air as United conduct their end of season review – a process that has been rather public.
It was reported by some sources before the FA Cup final that Ten Hag would be sacked regardless of the result, his fate was already sealed.
Although of all of the possible outcomes of the trip to Wembley – few expected a well-deserved, dominant United win.
The victory, which delivered Ten Hag’s second trophy in two seasons, has seemingly bought him some time, and perhaps another season.
The Dutchman has one-year remaining on his three-year contract, and may not conclude that deal.
That being said, a number of names have been mentioned if Ten Hag were to be sacked, with Brighton’s Roberto De Zerbi recently added to the list.
Alongside him, former United man Kieran McKenna and recently departed boss Mauricio Pochettino are thought to be under consideration among others.
Man United have told their manager shortlist that Erik Ten Hag might not leave after all
Whilst United have been in contact with the list of managers on their shortlist this week, it’s perhaps not for the purpose that most had imagined.
According to Manchester Evening News, the club have actually been telling Ten Hag’s potential replacements that their current boss may not leave after all.
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United are considering retaining the Dutchman despite all of the dialogue they’ve had with the intermediaries of potential successors.
It’s an understandable decision, but as stated it perhaps doesn’t bode well that this saga is playing out in the public eye.
Should Ten Hag stay at Old Trafford, which is clearly his wish, he’d likely be starting the new season under increased pressure, rather than enjoying the relief of having just won a trophy.
Manchester United fans will likely just want Ten Hag’s future sorted as quickly as possible either way – putting their side in the best position to attack the coming transfer market.
All that being said, if they do part ways with their current incumbent, INEOS are said to prefer a candidate that Roy Keane has previously called ‘brilliant’.