Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has revealed that the club considered replacing him, even going so far as to approach Thomas Tuchel. However, after a thorough review, United ultimately decided that ten Hag is the right man for the job. Ten Hag faced intense scrutiny after a difficult first season, which saw United finish eighth in the Premier League, their lowest position since 1990. They also exited the Champions League at the group stage. Despite these struggles, ten Hag managed to secure an FA Cup victory over Manchester City, a win that also guaranteed a spot in next season’s Europa League.
The revelation about Tuchel’s involvement came during an interview with Dutch broadcaster NOS, where ten Hag explained that United’s management approached him while he was on holiday. He stated that they told him they wanted to continue with him, despite the turbulent season.
While ten Hag was on holiday, several other managers were linked to the United job, including Mauricio Pochettino, Kieran McKenna, Graham Potter, Thomas Frank, Roberto De Zerbi, and Gareth Southgate. However, it was Tuchel who reportedly met with United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe. Although Tuchel appeared to rule himself out, ten Hag confirmed that United had flown to Ibiza to inform him that they were keeping him on as manager.
Ten Hag acknowledged the club’s thorough review process, stating that it’s common practice for organizations to evaluate their performance. He also pointed out that the new owner, Jim Ratcliffe, is new to football and took his time to make a decision. While ten Hag acknowledged that United had spoken with other managers, he emphasized that this kind of contact is not allowed in the Netherlands.
Despite the initial uncertainty, ten Hag remains confident about his future at Old Trafford. He confirmed that discussions are ongoing for a contract extension and expressed his belief that an agreement will be reached.
Ten Hag is United’s fifth permanent manager since the end of Sir Alex Ferguson’s legendary reign in 2013, following David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, Jose Mourinho, and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
