'He didn't do a good job' - Erik ten Hag criticised by Louis van Gaal but ex-Man Utd boss urges Red Devils to give Dutchman more time

Ten Hag, who was urged by Van Gaal in 2022 to avoid taking the United job, has overseen a tumultuous season that saw the Red Devils finish eighth in the Premier League, their worst-ever finish in the competition's history. Despite this, Ten Hag managed to lead his team to a surprising FA Cup victory over their fierce rivals, Manchester City, securing a 2-1 win at Wembley last month. This unexpected triumph has left the United fanbase divided over whether Ten Hag should stay or go.

The uncertainty surrounding Ten Hag's future is compounded by the ongoing end-of-season review being conducted by the club's hierarchy. This review is crucial in determining whether the former Ajax manager will continue at the helm. Van Gaal, who himself was dismissed by United after winning the FA Cup in 2016, has voiced his support for Ten Hag, suggesting that the current manager needs more time to implement his vision.

"Of course, he shouldn't be sacked," Van Gaal told Sky Sports. "But I also needed more time at Manchester United. I won the FA Cup, and for 20 years before me, no United manager had won it. Now Erik is winning the FA Cup and also qualified for the Champions League in his first year. So I don’t think you have to sack him. He needs more time, but I can also be more critical. He has not done it fantastically—you can give criticism—but he has also shown he is a good manager."

Rumours of Ten Hag's potential sacking have been swirling, particularly in light of reports that Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS group, who are involved in the club's decision-making process, have been contemplating a managerial change. The Independent recently reported that INEOS has identified England manager Gareth Southgate as their preferred candidate to succeed Ten Hag. However, Southgate has stated he will not engage in discussions about his future until after the conclusion of Euro 2024, where he will be leading the England national team.

INEOS' deliberation underscores their determination to ensure the next managerial appointment is the right one, avoiding any rash decisions regarding Ten Hag's dismissal without securing a viable replacement. United's eighth-place finish in the Premier League is a significant blemish on their proud history, and the pressure to improve is immense. The club's supporters and stakeholders are eager for a revival of their former glory days in English football, and the managerial decision will play a crucial role in shaping that journey.