Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is facing a potential 25% pay cut if the club fails to qualify for the Champions League this season. According to ESPN, a clause in ten Hag’s contract stipulates that his salary will be reduced if United do not secure a top-four finish in the Premier League.
Ten Hag’s position at Old Trafford has come under intense scrutiny following a disappointing second season in charge. The Red Devils currently sit seventh in the league table, 16 points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa, and need a miracle to finish in the top four.
Reports have emerged that United are already sounding out potential replacements for ten Hag, including England boss Gareth Southgate and Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi.
Despite the speculation surrounding his future, ten Hag remains confident in his team’s ability to qualify for Europe. Ahead of Wednesday’s Premier League clash with Sheffield United, he said: “Yes, we can still qualify for the Champions League, but we have to win every game. That’s what United stands for, that is our approach, go from game to game but we have to qualify for Europe and we have two opportunities in the league and the FA Cup final.”
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the British billionaire who recently expressed interest in buying Manchester United, has emphasized the importance of securing Champions League football for the club’s financial stability.
“We really, really want to get into the Champions League next year – it’s quite important for FFP,” Ratcliffe said last month.
“It’s a two to three season challenge to get the organisation and environment right to produce results. Our focus is absolutely on the field, winning football matches, but the first thing is the organisation – the design of the organisation needs to be correct.”
Following their clash with Sheffield United, United face fixtures against Burnley and Crystal Palace ahead of taking on title-chasing Arsenal at Old Trafford. Despite their struggles, ten Hag’s team still has a chance to win the FA Cup and secure a European spot. However, former England striker Alan Shearer believes that the decision to sack ten Hag has already been made.
“I think the powers that be have already made their mind up on Erik ten Hag,” Shearer said on Match of the Day. “I think he’s on borrowed time, I really do.”
Only time will tell if ten Hag can turn things around at Manchester United and secure Champions League qualification. However, one thing is for sure: he will face a significant pay cut if he fails to deliver.
