Erik ten Hag’s job security is set to come under further scrutiny with teams around Manchester United getting a strong finish to the season.
There is a realistic chance that United register their lowest-ever Premier League finish this season, surpassing the seventh place under David Moyes.
No matter the mitigating factors, that kind of display is bound to raise questions over the manager’s suitability.
The smoke is starting to develop from the fire as according to the latest developments, a candidate has started to separate himself from the pack.
Football Insider reports that Thomas Tuchel is emerging as the outright leading candidate to replace Erik ten Hag next season.
The report states that a multitude of factors are working in the German’s favor, who is at the top of the list for INEOS among candidates like Graham Potter, Roberto de Zerbi, and more.
The most important one that jumps out is the assertion that United players “would love to play for him” which is going to set a few eyes rolling in the fanbase.
Similar reports have emerged previously, with Ten Hag also being a players’ favorite until he wasn’t!
In addition, from INEOS’ perspective, he makes an attractive option due to two primary reasons.
Firstly, his prior experience in the Premier League, where he guided Chelsea to Champions League titles before the whole club collapsed is a big plus.
Secondly, his being out of contract in the summer is a big plus since United are already grappling with financial issues and have a huge on-the-pitch rebuild ahead.
Getting a manager without paying any compensation would then be a shrewd move as they will arguably have to pay Ten Hag’s last year of contract anyway.
All these factors combine to make Tuchel the top candidate as the clock continues to tick on Ten Hag’s future. It is presumed that only a strong finish to the season and an FA Cup victory would save his job.
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