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Erik ten Hag has survived as Manchester United’s manager after a critical six-hour meeting between the club’s leadership and its largest minority shareholder, Sir Jim Ratcliffe of INEOS. Speculation had mounted around the Dutchman’s future following United’s dreadful start to the 2024-25 season, which has left them 14th in the Premier League with just two wins from seven matches. However, after intense discussions in London on Tuesday, it was decided that Ten Hag would remain in charge, at least for now.
The much-anticipated meeting was held at INEOS’ headquarters and was attended by key United officials, including CEO Omar Berrada, sporting director Dan Ashworth, technical director Jason Wilcox, and Sir Dave Brailsford, INEOS’ head of sport. Despite widespread rumors of Ten Hag’s potential dismissal following United’s 0-0 draw with Aston Villa and disappointing results in the Europa League, the board concluded that it would not sack the manager at this point.
Reports had suggested that United’s leadership was weighing up replacements, with several high-profile names linked to the job. Former England boss Gareth Southgate, ex-Chelsea managers Thomas Tuchel and Graham Potter, and club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy were among the frontrunners to take over. Van Nistelrooy, who has impressed since joining the club as an assistant manager, is seen as a strong internal candidate.
Ten Hag’s future has been under scrutiny for months, especially after a turbulent 2023-24 campaign. While he guided United to FA Cup success, their league form was abysmal, finishing eighth in the Premier League. United also crashed out of the Champions League at the group stage, leading to a season-ending review of Ten Hag’s tenure. Despite this, the club chose to back him ahead of the current season, only for things to go from bad to worse.
The 2024-25 season has been a nightmare for Ten Hag and United so far. They sit in the bottom half of the Premier League table with a negative goal difference and have failed to win in their first two Europa League group-stage matches, drawing with FC Twente and Porto. This dismal form placed even more pressure on Tuesday’s meeting, with many expecting it to be the final nail in Ten Hag’s tenure.
Nevertheless, the decision to stick with the Dutchman for the time being means he will remain in charge for United’s next match against Brentford on October 19 at Old Trafford. This could be a crucial fixture for Ten Hag, as further underperformance could reignite the calls for his dismissal, especially with several replacement options ready to step in.
The club’s decision to retain Ten Hag is seen as surprising, considering their position in the Premier League table and the growing frustration among fans. The board is likely wary of the instability that sacking a manager mid-season can cause, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding potential successors. While Gareth Southgate and Thomas Tuchel are experienced candidates, Van Nistelrooy’s internal rise may provide a smoother transition if Ten Hag is eventually shown the door.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s influence in the decision-making process cannot be understated. The British billionaire’s INEOS group holds a significant stake in Manchester United and played a key role in Tuesday’s executive summit. Ratcliffe has been closely involved in major decisions since acquiring his stake and is expected to continue having a say in United’s future direction.
As it stands, Erik ten Hag lives to fight another day. But with mounting pressure, underwhelming performances, and a difficult season ahead, his tenure at Old Trafford remains precarious. Should results fail to improve after the international break, the Dutchman may not be so lucky the next time United’s board convenes.
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