'Isn't easily done' - Erik ten Hag issues worrying Manchester United contract update

Erik ten Hag says he is yet to agree to a new Manchester United contract and admits there are still some issues that need to be discussed before he does so.

United decided it was best for Ten Hag to remain in his job as United manager following their end-of-season review, with their FA Cup final victory over Man City viewed as a huge endorsement of his untapped potential in the role.

As part of the thorough performance review of the previous campaign the 'clear conclusion' was for Ten Hag to remain in the role, while club sources also confirmed they had entered negotiations on a contract extension.

ManchesterWorld revealed last week this could include an official change of job title from 'manager' to 'first-team coach', with Ten Hag expected to lose some of his overall power at the club, particularly in terms of recruitment. We also revealed that Ten Hag’s involvement in the transfer strategy will be a key point of discussion when both parties sit down to negotiate a new contract.

United are hopeful of agreeing new terms with Ten Hag as soon as possible, but speaking over the weekend, the Dutchman admitted there were still a few obstacles in the way. "Manchester United and I still have to find an agreement for the new contract," he told NOS. "This isn't easily done - we are still going to have to talk about this."

Ten Hag made plenty of headlines during his stint as a pundit for England's opening match against Serbia, not only by aiming a sly dig at Gareth Southgate, but also by admitting he was aware Ineos had spoken to many managers about potentially replacing him.

Quizzed on the matter, he said: "Manchester United have told me that they spoke with Tuchel, but they eventually came to the conclusion that they already have the best manager. Ineos took their time. They are new in football, it's normal to reflect on the season. It's no secret that they talked with multiple candidates."