Dan Ashworth explains why INEOS extended Erik ten Hag's contract as new Man Utd sporting director admits Red Devils 'fell below the required standards' last season

Ashworth gave Ten Hag his and the club's full support, describing the Dutchman as "one of Europe's top coaches". The nature of beating Manchester City in the FA Cup was seen as proof of the potential, with the challenge to unlock that more consistently.

Prior to lifting the FA Cup, Ten Hag's side had slumped to eighth place in the Premier League - a worst top flight finish since 1990. Without victory at Wembley, United wouldn't have qualified for European football this coming season and speculation over the manager's future was rife throughout May and into June until an audit by the incoming INEOS contingent had been carried out. Eventually, the decision was made to keep Ten Hag and that was backed by a contract extension until 2026.

Ashworth said in a column addressing United fans: "Omar Berrada has started as chief executive, and Jason Wilcox as technical director, and I can assure you that we have lost no time in getting to work. Our first big decision of the summer was to extend Erik ten Hag's contract as men's first-team manager to June 2026, reflecting our strong belief in him as one of Europe's top coaches, and the partner we want to continue working with to get the team back to the levels expected.

"We are all clear that last season fell below the required standards in the Premier League and Champions League but, by winning the FA Cup in such impressive fashion, our players and staff showed what they are capable of when everyone pulls together and performs to their potential. 

"Our collective challenge is to reach those levels much more consistently. It's my job, together with Jason, to create the right support structures and environment around Erik, the staff and players to make that possible. Already, I can feel a strong sense of energy and determination around the group, as the players and staff return fresh from their breaks, including some exciting new additions to the squad, and to the coaching team."

The new sporting hierarchy have worked quickly and efficiently this summer to add Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro to the squad. But with another centre-back on the radar and potentially other positions as well, the work is far from done. United could also still bid farewell to a number of current players to raise cash and rejuvenate the team for this fresh chapter.