World class manager is ‘first in line’ to replace Erik ten Hag if he is sacked by Man Utd

Manchester United have contacted a number of managers to discuss Erik ten Hag’s future, including a candidate they consider ‘first in line’ if Erik ten Hag were to be sacked.

At the end of last season, after United beat Manchester City in the FA Cup final, it was confirmed following an end-of-season review that Ten Hag would remain as manager of Old Trafford.

After finishing eighth in the league, the Dutchman came under intense scrutiny, with United’s owners even holding talks with several managers about replacing the former Ajax manager, including Mauricio Pochettino, Marco Silva and Thomas Tuchel.

Ten Hag later confirmed that United had held talks with Tuchel. “Manchester United told me that they spoke to (Thomas) Tuchel, but they ultimately concluded that they already have the best manager,” he told NOS.

“INEOS took their time. They are new to football, it is normal to look back on the season. It is no secret that they have spoken to several candidates.

A few months later, United have struggled in their first three league games, edging Fulham on the opening day thanks to a late goal from Joshua Zirkzee, before suffering back-to-back defeats to Brighton and Liverpool.

Ten Hag’s future has therefore become a hot topic.

According to a report by the Daily Mail in July, after the former England manager was widely linked with the role earlier this year.

Thomas Tuchel is expected to be first in line to replace Ten Hag.

Image Credits: Getty

Amid ongoing speculation surrounding Ten Hag’s job, United CEO Omar Berrada has opted for the current United boss to stay on.

“Erik has our full support and we have worked very closely together in this transfer window. We will continue to work very closely with him to help him get the best results from the team.

He added: “Contract-wise, that was a decision taken before both of our arrivals. But we are very happy with that decision.”

Berrada insisted they will back the Dutchman even if United’s poor start continues, adding: “Absolutely. We think Erik is the right coach for us and we fully support him.”