Erik ten Hag, the current manager of Manchester United, continues to enjoy strong support from the club’s leadership, including Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who is in the process of acquiring a 25% stake in the club and is poised to take control of football operations at Old Trafford. Despite increased pressure on Ten Hag due to Manchester United’s inconsistent performances and recent losses, it is believed that the Glazer family, the club’s owners, and the current chief executive, Richard Arnold, are committed to standing by him, confident in his ability to reverse the team’s fortunes.
Ten Hag took the reins in the summer of 2022, appointed by the Glazers and Arnold after a disappointing Premier League season for United. His first season saw a top-four finish and a League Cup victory, but this season has seen a noticeable decline in performance.
While the Glazers and Arnold remain supportive of Ten Hag, they are in the process of relinquishing control of the club’s sporting operations to Ratcliffe and INEOS, marking a significant change in the club’s structure. Ratcliffe, Sir Dave Brailsford, and others set to assume control are reportedly confident in Ten Hag’s managerial abilities, given his track record at United and his time at Ajax.
Ratcliffe’s initial decisions upon taking control will have a direct impact on the club’s footballing structure, which is currently overseen by Arnold and John Murtough. There has been criticism of their handling of off-field matters involving players Mason Greenwood and Antony, as well as the club’s transfer strategy, which often grants managers substantial influence.
Ratcliffe aims to address these issues by potentially appointing a new sporting director, such as Paul Mitchell, and shifting toward a “continental model” for transfer strategy that emphasizes a consistent and long-term vision. While significant moves in the January transfer window are not expected, this could change if Mitchell is introduced earlier. The club’s focus is on achieving stability with the manager and the squad amid substantial behind-the-scenes changes.
Manchester United intends to have Ten Hag primarily focus on coaching and maximizing the current squad’s potential while avoiding hasty decisions. An inquiry into the current operation is planned for the club’s long-term benefit, with Sir Dave Brailsford expected to lead this process during a period of uncertainty at the club.
