Why Manchester United are keeping Erik ten Hag as manager with new contract planned

Manchester United have made the decision to stick with manager Erik ten Hag following their extensive end-of-season review.

Club sources confirmed that after a thorough performance review of the 2023/24 season and broader first team operation the ‘clear conclusion’ was that Ten Hag should remain as the first-team manager.

ManchesterWorld have also been told that United have entered negotiations on a contract extension, which could even see the manager’s role changed to that of a head coach as part of the ongoing restructure of the club’s hierarchy. Ten Hag is currently the first-team manager but could change role so that his focus is solely on coaching the players, rather than delving into transfer issues and wider club politics.

United's spirited performance in the FA Cup final victory over Manchester City was viewed as a key reason why he should stay in the job, a match which showcased the huge untapped potential he still has to offer.

There is also a feeling that the Dutchman has done well to achieve what he has done already with a squad that is clearly in need of improvement in the summer transfer window.

Ten Hag will argue that the club’s injury situation was a key factor in their struggles this past season, with 66 separate instances of injury or illness causing a senior player to miss a competitive match. However, it has often felt like too convenient an excuse, with their level of performance deemed not good enough irrespective of their issues on and off the pitch.

United will now push ahead with their summer recruitment plans, with the previous uncertainty surrounding the managerial situation impacting the assurances they could give to players. Ineos plan to back Ten Hag with three new signings in the summer transfer window, but are also targeting a record level of player sales as they look to overhaul the playing squad.