Erik ten Hag in danger! Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have 'serious concerns' about Man Utd boss after 'underwhelming' start to the season

United have been beaten in two of their first three Premier League matches which brought growing doubts within the club's hierarchy about whether Ten Hag is the right man to lead the team forward, as reported by The Guardian. The3-0 defeat to Liverpool on home turf has further weakened Ten Hag's appeal to Ratcliffe and questions are being asked of his tactical model at Old Trafford.

While there is recognition of the challenges Ten Hag has faced—including several key injuries and the need to integrate five new signings—patience is wearing thin. United’s poor form has highlighted tactical inconsistencies, and Ten Hag's approach has been questioned by many. With injuries hampering the squad and new arrivals needing time to settle, Ten Hag faces a difficult balancing act.

Yet, despite these challenges, the pressure to deliver immediate results has never been greater. If performances don’t improve, it is feared that the Dutchman could be removed from his position sooner rather than later. However, in public, Ten Hag received the "full backing" of Manchester United chief executive Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth.

Ten Hag was backed in the transfer market by INEOS as they signed Leny Yoro, Joshua Zirkzee, Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui and Manuel Ugarte. While Yoro and Ugarte are yet to play a competitive match, Ten Hag has so far failed to chalk out a blueprint to inspire the team to dominate proceedings.

The upcoming period will be a defining stretch for Ten Hag as after the international break, United face a busy schedule that will test both the depth of the squad and the manager’s ability to navigate multiple competitions. In just six weeks, United will play nine matches, including crucial Premier League fixtures and important Europa League games.

United’s post-break schedule begins with a trip to Southampton in the league, followed by a Carabao Cup clash at home against Barnsley. The fixtures are not intimidating which will allow Ten Hag an opportunity to prove that his tactical vision can deliver results. However, any slip-up will only magnify any shortcomings which could further undermine his position and lead to discussions about his future at the club. The clock is ticking!