Manchester United fans are still waiting for clarity on the managerial position at Old Trafford as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos continue to weigh up Erik ten Hag’s future.
We are now more than two weeks removed from Manchester United’s superb FA Cup final victory at Wembley.
Beating Manchester City to finish the season felt like a perfect end to what was a troubling campaign, with fans able to celebrate a memorable day in the sun.
Erik ten Hag lifted the trophy amid major questions about his future at United, a moment which either helped save his job or a final hurrah ahead of a departure.
We are now approaching the middle of June and Ineos are yet to formalise their decision on Ten Heg.
The Dutchman is no doubt frustrated right now as he waits to find out whether he is taking charge of pre-season training or needs to pack up his office.
Mauricio Pochettino decision made at Manchester United
The real stinging factor for Ten Hag is that United appear to be actively chasing other managers.
Former Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel appears to have been spoken to but won’t be taking the job, for instance.
Ten Hag may feel that, even if United keep him, it would only be because other options haven’t worked out.
That may be the story with Mauricio Pochettino too, following his shock Chelsea exit in May.
Pochettino – hailed as a ‘brilliant’ manager by United target Trevoh Chalobah – lasted less than a year at Stamford Bridge despite a sixth-place finish.
Speculation in May – just one day after the FA Cup final win – suggested that United had held discussions with Pochettino.
The Times now report that Pochettino was on a shortlist of potential Ten Hag replacement.
However, it’s suggested that United have now cooled that interest and Pochettino appears to be out of the picture.
It’s unclear just why United have come to that decision, especially as Ineos are known fans of the Argentinian and tried to bring him to Nice.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe and co appear to be moving in another direction though, arguably raising even more questions about just who will be in the United dugout next season.
Who is left for Manchester United?
Tuchel and Pochettino now appear to be out of the thinking for United.
Both have done great work elsewhere, especially in the Premier League, but aren’t set to join United.
The field of potential candidates is now narrowing.
Hansi Flick was linked with United but has since joined Barcelona whilst Bologna’s Thiago Motta is heading to Juventus.
Gareth Southgate has been suggested but he may not be available for more than a month due to his Euro 2024 commitments with England.
Roberto De Zerbi and Graham Potter are out of work and could come into the thinking, but there aren’t many of the rumoured candidates left now.
That may point towards Ten Hag being given a stay of execution and the next week should be pivotal as Ineos surely close in on a final decision.