Erik ten Hag expressed his desire for Manchester United to take the “next step” on their pre-season tour, indicating a potential continuation as their manager. Recent reports from the BBC suggested that talks were underway to extend Ten Hag’s contract at Old Trafford, which is entering its final season.
Despite a challenging second campaign, culminating in a surprise 2-1 FA Cup final victory against Manchester City, speculation regarding Ten Hag’s future persisted. Rumors circulated that he would be dismissed by United’s new co-owner Jim Ratcliffe, regardless of the Cup final outcome.
Despite finishing eighth in the Premier League and an early Champions League exit, the 54-year-old seems prepared to lead the team in pre-season friendlies, starting with a match against Rosenborg in Norway on July 15.
“Pre-season is about preparing for the season and we have to make that our next step,” he told United’s website.
“It is one of the only times when you have the team together and you can work in training on structures, the way of play but also on certain standards around the team and that’s very important to take this period and use it effectively.”
United are unlikely to have a full-strength squad available given several of their players will be involved at Euro 2024 and the Copa America.
“(The squad will be) as strong as possible but, of course, the players who go far in the Copa America and the Euros will not be involved,” Ten Hag said
“There will be a mix, with experienced players together with some young players.”
In addition to their match against Rosenborg, Manchester United will face Rangers at Murrayfield before heading to the United States for further fixtures against Arsenal, Real Betis, and Liverpool. Recent reports suggested that United’s co-owner Jim Ratcliffe had discussions with Thomas Tuchel, but the German coach reportedly ruled himself out of contention.
Mauricio Pochettino, another rumored candidate, is now a free agent after leaving Chelsea, but United’s interest in him has reportedly waned. Other managers linked to the club include Graham Potter, Thomas Frank, Roberto De Zerbi, and current England boss Gareth Southgate.
Erik ten Hag would become United’s fifth permanent manager since the end of Alex Ferguson’s tenure in 2013, following David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, Jose Mourinho, and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
