Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is reportedly not under pressure to secure a top-four finish next season with Sir Jim Ratcliffe prioritising a different goal.
The 2023/24 Premier League term was a massively disappointing one for United as they finished in eighth place, their worst-ever finish since 1989/90.
Ten Hag’s men won 18 matches, lost 14 and drew six. Even worse is that they finished with a negative goal difference.
United regularly found themselves at the end of intense criticism from the media and supporters, leaving Ten Hag’s future at the club hanging in the balance.
There was however some light at the end of the tunnel for the Dutchman and his players as they managed to close the campaign with a sensational 2-1 win over Manchester City in the FA Cup final at Wembley. The victory secured United a place in the Europa League and also convinced Ratcliffe and INEOS to retain Ten Hag for a bit longer.
After a lengthy internal review process, club bosses decided to back the 54-year-old coach, whose contract was extended until June 2026.
United have so far been busy in the transfer market as they aim to bolster the squad ahead of the upcoming 2024/25 season. Already, the Red Devils have confirmed the signings of Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna and Leny Yoro from Lille.
However, amidst all this, The Guardian reports that Ten Hag’s primary goal will not be to clinch Champions League football for the 20-time English champions.
According to the newspaper, “Erik ten Hag is not under pressure to guide Manchester United to a top-four finish next season, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe prioritising considerable progression of the team as the man in charge of football operations at United aims to establish sustained excellence there.”
“While Ten Hag’s ambition is to lead United to as high a position as possible and Ratcliffe’s Ineos-led football department want the same, there is a recognition there are no guarantees next season as the club rebuilds and that establishing a firm foundation will allow ongoing success.”
“In concert with the sporting director, Dan Ashworth, Ten Hag’s remit is to significantly improve on-field performance and off-field standards.”
Jamie Jackson adds that there is an acceptance at Old Trafford that injuries severely hampered the side from nailing down a consistent run of results and performances last season.
To address this, Ten Hag elected to shorten pre-season to ensure that his players receive enough rest before the Premier League campaign kicks off. Last season, United played eight pre-season matches. This time, the team is scheduled to participate in six games.
The United stars and coaching staff flew out to the United States on Wednesday afternoon for their pre-season tour.
United will open their tour against Arsenal on July 27 before facing off vs. Real Betis on July 31. The team’s final meeting will see them play Arne Slot’s Liverpool on August 3.
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