Erik ten Hag has received the approval of Manchester United’s top hierarchy to retain his role as head coach, despite the heavy defeat suffered against Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on Sunday evening.
Before the FA Cup final last season against Manchester City, Manchester United had decided to part ways with Ten Hag regardless of the outcome in the final.
However, they reversed this decision after he guided the club to an FA Cup title, defeating rivals Manchester City. Under his leadership, United had one of their worst campaigns since 1990, finishing 8th last season.
If United lose to Southampton after the international break on 14 September, it will mark their worst start to a season since 1986-87, when they managed just one point from their first four games. Within two months of that poor start, Ron Atkinson was dismissed and replaced by Sir Alex Ferguson.
Speaking to the press before the Liverpool game, United’s Chief Executive Omar Berrada said the club is happy with Ten Hag and fully supports him:
“It was a decision taken prior to both of our arrivals, but we are very happy with it,” said Berrada. “Erik has our full backing. We think he is the right coach for us.
“We have worked very closely together in this transfer window and will continue working very closely with him to help get the best results out of the team.”
Sporting Director Dan Ashworth said he has enjoyed working with the Dutchman since his appointment and will continue to support Ten Hag:
“Very rarely do you go into a job as a sporting director and there is no manager in place,” he added. “All I can do is reiterate that I’ve really enjoyed working with Erik for the last eight weeks.
“My job is to support him in every way I possibly can, whether that’s operationally, with recruitment, medical, psychology, or the training ground flow, to allow him to fully focus on the training pitch and match tactical plan to deliver success for Manchester United.”
Manchester United were stunned on Sunday by Liverpool following a 3-0 defeat at Old Trafford, a result that has led many Manchester United fans to call for Ten Hag’s immediate dismissal.
Despite spending €214.50m in the summer transfer window, Manchester United still lacks quality in all departments:
Bruno Fernandes was repeatedly outplayed as a striker.
The next best option from the bench after Casemiro’s shambolic performance, where he gave away two passes that led to goals, was Toby Collyer, an academy product who made his debut on the same day.
The defensive and goalkeeping departments were in disarray, with Jonny Evans and Harry Maguire still significant projects within the club.
