Sky Sports reported that there will not be any change in Manchester United’s managerial role next season. The news comes just after a few days after the news of England manager Gareth Southgate’s chances of taking over Old Tafford.
Sky senior reporter Melissa Reddy said that the United board are not thinking of replacing the Dutch manager. Instead, the club will give Ten Hag full backup to navigate the team for the upcoming season.
“Manchester United emphatically say no decision has been made over a managerial change,” the report said. “The club are planning for next season with Erik ten Hag. This follows widespread rumours linking England manager Gareth Southgate with the job.”
The Southgate rumour sparked with multiple reports linking a close relationship between United’s current operational boss Sir Jim Rattclife and the club’s future executive Dan Ashworth. It is reported that Ashworth was Southgate’s close friend, making it easy for him to lure the England manager to Old Trafford.
Also Read: Erik ten Hag to Bundesliga might work out if the Dutch manager faces sack at Manchester United
Two Manchester United’s legend have the opposite thoughts
Two United former players Gary Neville and Roy Keane have the opposite thoughts regarding the possibility of Southgate joining the club. Neville said it was unlikely for such a deal to happen considering England’s busy schedule ahead of the Euros.
“I think if Gareth is leaving, I think to be honest with you, you’ll have seen this in tournaments, but it’s never been easy,” Neville told Sky Bet’s Stick to Football podcast. “So, I think if it’s done maturely, I can see how it would be brought forward in terms of Gareth.
“Forget Manchester United, England would need to appoint a new manager. So, they are going to have to appoint a new manager pre-tournament, probably. I never saw Gareth Southgate as a Manchester United manager, psychologically, I never saw that.”
Meanwhile the former captain Keane said it was possible for the deal to be materialised. The Irishman supported the theory of Ashworth-Southgate connection as a significant factor which could lead Southgate coming to Manchester.
“His connection with Dan Ashworth, who he has worked with previously,” Keane said. “Yeah, I’m not that surprised with it. I can see it now, now Dan Ashworth has come in. I just think, what does Erik ten Hag need to do to stay as Manchester United manager?
“So, for instance, is the FA Cup enough, or does he need to get top four, or top five, Champions League?”
Manchester United are yet to announce statements
The club has yet to announce Ten Hag’s fate for the next season. Man United are now fighting for one remaining possible title this season, the FA Cup.
After successfully trashing Liverpool at Old Trafford last week, The Red Devils will face Coventry City FC in the semifinal. If they manage to beat the West Midlands-based side, United would face the winner between Chelsea and Manchester City.