Erik ten Hag admits Man Utd have 'fallen down in the standards' this season but backs Sir Jim Ratcliffe to turn club's fortunes around

The Dutchman, whose future at Old Trafford is uncertain, has stated that, in the two months after the Glazers approved INEOS's entrance, he has already witnessed how the club has changed direction. Ratcliffe has already named Manchester City chief Omar Berrada as the next CEO of United, and he is scheduled to have discussions about a sporting director position with Dan Ashworth.

Speaking to the media, Ten Hag said [via The Daily Mail]: "The club has fallen down in the standards, but now we are back. I have already seen some examples of how (INEOS) can support us to really set that right standard. We know when performances are not right we have to look in the mirror, tell each other the truth and get things right. There are always many fans away and home standing behind us, but it starts with us; we have to put energy into the stands and then it comes back."

Following Ten Hag's appointment as manager in 2022, United's fortunes began to turn around. The Dutch coach ended the team's six-year trophy drought by winning the Carabao Cup and leading them back into the Champions League. However, United's second season under charge has not been particularly impressive. After being eliminated from Europe before Christmas, the team is presently sixth in the Premier League standings. Off the pitch, fans of the club now feel optimistic that United will once again be contending for league and European titles thanks to the INEOS group's minority control of the team.

The Red Devils will be back in action in the Premier League when the club take on defending champions and city rivals, Manchester City on Sunday, March 3. A win could see ten Hag's side leapfrog Tottenham into fifth place.