Man Utd must name popular caretaker boss as INEOS get creative - Erik ten Hag sack verdict
INEOS were right to hand Erik ten Hag the opportunity to make things work at Manchester United after he lifted a second trophy in as many years in May. But just eight games into the new season, it’s become clearer than ever that the Dutchman is out of his depth in the Premier League.
Sunday’s 3-0 defeat against Tottenham was an abomination of the highest order.
I have been a season ticket holder in the 14th row of the Stretford End for 10 years, and there aren’t many occasions I’ve left Old Trafford less inspired.
United fans have now witnessed four 3-0 defeats on home turf in the last year and eight losses in their previous 20 such fixtures. Sunday showcased the 23rd time the Red Devils have conceded at least three goals in a game under Ten Hag.
Related articles Erik ten Hag responds to sack threat as Man Utd boss sends defiant message Erik ten Hag must make good on Man Utd promise after fans call for sackThe sour reading doesn’t stop there. Six wins in 20 Premier League games. One win in nine outings in Europe. United are 12th - closer to rock bottom than leaders Liverpool.
Ten Hag hasn’t missed a beat when relentlessly reminding the media that he has won two trophies in as many seasons.
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But surely Ten Hag understands that as long as United are a mid-table side in the Premier League, supporters will understandably be unsettled.
I wanted the 54-year-old to remain in charge and felt justified in doing so after INEOS held meetings with multiple replacement candidates but decided to stick and not twist.
Ruud van Nistelrooy would be a popular pick. (Image: Getty) Stay up-to-date with the latest Man Utd news Join us on WhatsAppOur community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
That was only a few months ago, so the managerial pool that Sir Jim Ratcliffe and United’s decision-makers have at their disposal will still be limited.
But INEOS got creative in the summer by welcoming Ruud van Nistelrooy back to the club as one of Ten Hag’s assistants.
The Old Trafford icon scored 150 goals in 219 appearances for the club in his playing days but his return was a surprise.
He had established himself as one of Europe’s most exciting young coaches during his short stint as PSV Eindhoven manager, lifting the Johan Cruyff Shield and KNVB Cup.
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Related articles Bruno Fernandes shares James Maddison view seconds after red card Man Utd sent Erik ten Hag sack demand from fans during chastening Tottenham loss Jadon Sancho compounds Man Utd misery with post moments after humiliationSo to snub other managerial offers to become an assistant raised eyebrows. But perhaps INEOS pursued Van Nistelrooy with a contingency plan in mind.
Should Ten Hag not survive while no external candidates stand out, United now have clear option to name as caretaker manager. Van Nistelrooy at the helm would undoubtedly go down well among the fanbase.
United have already explored the club legend route with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to promising effect until the wheels fell off in 2021. I wouldn’t be opposed to seeing the club attempt that route again. The football - for the most part - was decent and the vibes were better.
Even if Van Nistelrooy can halt the Red Devils’ free fall temporarily before a more established coach arrives, it’s worth the risk. Right now, Ten Hag’s regime is being left behind, and there is little sign of a renaissance. Change is required.
Man Utd must name popular caretaker boss as INEOS get creative - Erik ten Hag sack verdict
Man Utd must name popular caretaker boss as INEOS get creative - Erik ten Hag sack verdict
Man Utd must name popular caretaker boss as INEOS get creative - Erik ten Hag sack verdict
Man Utd must name popular caretaker boss as INEOS get creative - Erik ten Hag sack verdict
Man Utd must name popular caretaker boss as INEOS get creative - Erik ten Hag sack verdict
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