Manchester United make Erik ten Hag decision

Manchester United have reportedly been left impressed by Erik ten Hag and are likely to decide imminently over appointing a new full-time manager.

According to Stretty News, there have been developments on the road to appoint Manchester United’s next full-time manager after the club’s board interviewed Erik ten Hag for the role. The club’s hierarchy are keen to appoint one of two club legends in the assistant’s role to unify the dressing room, although the finalisation on that front is pending.

Manchester United’s primary focus remains on appointing a new manager to replace interim boss Ralf Rangnick. The German tactician was brought in after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s sacking last year, with the former RB Leipzig tactician fast-tracked to steady the ship after dismal performances in the first half of the season.

Rangnick will not take up the full-time role, as he is destined to continue in a consultancy role at Manchester United after his current managerial stint. To that end, Manchester United have reportedly shortlisted a few candidates to become the club’s next manager, with some notable names present on the list.

There were rumours about Manchester United looking to poach Thomas Tuchel from Chelsea after the UK government placed sanctions on the Blues in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Although others may be considered priority candidates, Tuchel reportedly remains in contention.

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Former Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino is thought to be one of those, although Ajax’s Erik ten Hag is in pole position to assume the role. There have been arguments about the Dutchman and the Argentine, but the Ajax manager might get the nod from a stylistic point of view.

Manchester United reportedly contacted Erik ten Hag over the role. As widely reported this week, the Manchester United board have interviewed the Dutchman, although they are yet to take a final call. The Ajax tactician certainly has what it takes to bring stability to the club, but there are still several issues to iron out before making the final confirmation call.

One of those lingering issues is the appointment of a new assistant manager. Manchester United feel a former player should be in place for that role, as senior figures at Old Trafford are of the opinion that someone like that will help unify the dressing room.

According to the report, former English defender Rio Ferdinand has put his name forward, but the board is unconvinced if he is the right man. Robin van Persie’s name is also under consideration, and Manchester United could make a firm decision in the coming days regarding the same.

There are suggestions that Manchester United like the prospect of appointing Erik ten Hag as their new manager, but a confirmation may yet take time. The Premier League bigwigs are planning further interviews with other candidates, and after that, the official announcement could soon follow.