Revealed: Why Ruud van Nistelrooy is having doubts about replacing Erik ten Hag at Man Utd

Van Nistelrooy returned to Old Trafford in a coaching role in the summer, but he probably didn't expect to find himself linked with the manager's job so soon into his spell. That is the scenario facing United after a woeful start to the season, with the Red Devils losing three of their first six Premier League games and also struggling in Europe.

Now, Ten Hag finds himself on the brink of losing his job. It was reported this week that the Dutch coach has one game to save his job, with a trip to Aston Villa to come on Sunday. Red Devils chiefs will reportedly hold a meeting after the match, which will be attended by INEOS chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe, with Ten Hag's future surely to be a key talking point.

However, they may have to look elsewhere should they decide to part ways with Ten Hag. According to the Mirror, Van Nistelrooy has reservations about taking the top job, fearing it may be seen as a betrayal of Ten Hag. During his time in charge of PSV Eindhoven in 2022-23, Van Nistelrooy accused his assistant of conspiring with the club's directors behind his back, and he wants to avoid a similar situation occurring at Old Trafford. A source told the newspaper: "Van Nistelrooy is a principled guy. He felt betrayed at Eindhoven - and he will not want to be viewed as the man who went behind Erik ten Hag’s back."

Failure to pick up all three points at Villa Park on Sunday could well spell the end for Ten Hag. But you wouldn't believe he was reportedly close to losing his job based on his comments this week about his future.