Has the FA Cup saved Erik ten Hag? Not exactly. While it’s true that Manchester United and its new owners, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, considered replacing him, they ultimately decided to stick with their current manager. It’s a sensible decision, given the lack of obvious upgrades available. However, the entire process has left Ten Hag bruised and undermined, with his authority now questionable.
Manchester United and its owners were well within their rights to explore their options. They needed to assess if there was an opportunity to improve the club’s situation. Standing still is not an option in football, and United has been lagging behind. The club’s performance last season, despite winning the FA Cup, was a mess, and Ten Hag must take responsibility for the team’s lack of coaching and management.
Erik ten Hag remains at the helm of Manchester United after INEOS’ decision.
Ratcliffe and his team were justified in their search for a potential replacement.
While United’s owners were justified in their search for alternatives, their handling of the situation has been amateurish and embarrassing. The decision to delay Ten Hag’s fate until after the FA Cup final was a mistake. It has cost them credibility with fans and potentially with Ten Hag himself, who has been left dangling for over two weeks. The constant leaks about their conversations with other managers have only made matters worse.
INEOS’ actions have exposed their naivete and clumsiness in managing a football club. If they want to get Manchester United back on track, they need to improve their decision-making and conduct. As for Ten Hag, he will need to step up his game if he wants to remain in charge beyond the autumn.