### Manchester United Legend Rio Ferdinand Reveals Club’s Plans for Erik Ten Hag Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has shared insights on the club’s future plans for manager Erik Ten Hag. The Red Devils concluded their Premier League campaign in eighth place, meaning they will miss out on European football next season. Ferdinand stated, “Believe me when I say Erik Ten Hag will be sacked. Sir Jim is ruthless, and we know who is going to succeed Ten Hag. This season has been disastrous, and Ratcliffe won’t tolerate this.” Ferdinand asserted that Ten Hag will be dismissed regardless of the outcome of Saturday’s FA Cup final, criticizing the squad’s lack of identity.
The Red Devils ended their Premier League season with a 2-0 win over Brighton, but it wasn’t enough to avoid their lowest-ever Premier League finish. Finishing eighth means Manchester United will miss out on European football next term unless they defeat Manchester City at Wembley.
The Red Devils ended their Premier League season with a 2-0 win over Brighton, but it wasn’t enough to avoid their lowest-ever Premier League finish. Finishing eighth means Manchester United will miss out on European football next term unless they defeat Manchester City at Wembley.
Erik ten Hag’s future has been in doubt following a tumultuous 2023-24 season. His injury-ridden team was eliminated from the Champions League at the group stage and suffered several high-profile defeats. Despite the potential morale boost of winning the FA Cup, former United player Rio Ferdinand has expressed doubts about Ten Hag continuing into a third season.
On his podcast FIVE, Ferdinand suggested that regardless of the FA Cup result, Ten Hag might not remain in charge next season. “I’m not saying that’s what I want, I’m just saying what I believe is going to happen,” he explained, indicating that the club might seek a new direction.
Ferdinand highlighted the team’s poor performances as a significant concern, even considering the injuries. “Most teams have had injuries, maybe not to the same extent as Man United,” he said, pointing out that the team’s style of play has been unidentifiable. “I don’t know what we are. I don’t know who we are. Who are we as a team? What are we?”
Ten Hag has defended his tenure, insisting it would be irrational to disrupt the progress made. After a recent defeat to Arsenal, he expressed confidence in his leadership, citing the team’s overall spirit and adherence to game principles despite needing to adapt due to injuries.
Following a victory against Newcastle in their penultimate Premier League match, Ten Hag rallied his players, vowing to give “everything” to win the FA Cup and bring the trophy to Old Trafford. However, his future remains uncertain. United’s part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS team are reportedly considering alternatives.
Reports have surfaced of United’s management contacting Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna, who has successfully led the team to Premier League promotion. Additionally, prominent managers like Gareth Southgate and Thomas Tuchel have been linked as potential successors to Ten Hag.