Manchester United have opted to retain Erik ten Hag as manager, a source confirmed to ESPN.
Speculation surrounded the Dutchman’s future following a disappointing Premier League campaign, but the club’s triumph in the FA Cup final against Manchester City marked a positive conclusion to the season.
Following an extensive review conducted by new co-owners INEOS, led by Sir Dave Brailsford, the decision was made to keep Ten Hag at the helm.
Sources revealed to ESPN that the review unequivocally recommended Ten Hag’s continuation as manager.
Talks between Ten Hag and the club are underway to discuss a contract extension beyond his current deal, which was set to expire in 2025.
These discussions were described as constructive, focusing on the outcomes of the review.
Ten Hag’s inaugural season at Old Trafford saw a commendable third-place finish in the Premier League and success in the Carabao Cup.
However, the subsequent season witnessed a downturn, with United’s league performance hitting an all-time low as they finished eighth.
Despite winning the FA Cup, their European and domestic struggles led to consideration of potential replacements for Ten Hag, including Thomas Tuchel, Mauricio Pochettino, Roberto De Zerbi, Thomas Frank, Kieran McKenna, and Graham Potter.
Moreover, interest was also expressed in England manager Gareth Southgate.
Ten Hag has repeatedly insisted injuries were to blame for poor results and was defiant in the face of intense questioning about his future following the FA Cup final at Wembley, saying: “If they [United’s owners] don’t want me, then I go somewhere else to win trophies because that is what I do.”
Following Manchester United’s 2-1 victory over Manchester City at Wembley, securing his second trophy in as many seasons, Erik ten Hag has been enjoying a holiday in Ibiza.
Now that he has received confirmation that he will retain his position as manager, it is anticipated that he will return to Carrington for the commencement of preseason training in July. United’s summer fixtures kick off with a match against Rosenborg in Norway on July 15.