Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag could be facing the sack “very soon,” according to pundit Graeme Souness, who believes Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the club’s co-owner, has already made up his mind about the Dutchman’s future. Despite a late surge in the 2023/24 season that saw United lift the FA Cup, Ten Hag’s position remains precarious after a poor start to the current campaign.
United’s struggles have continued, with only two wins in their first seven Premier League games and disappointing results in the Europa League. Although Ten Hag’s contract was extended until 2026 after a successful summer review, his job is now reportedly in jeopardy as he’s considered the most likely Premier League manager to be sacked this season.
Ratcliffe and senior club executives met earlier this week, and while Ten Hag is expected to remain in charge for their upcoming home match against Brentford on October 19, many believe his time is running out. Souness, in particular, is convinced that the decision to part ways with Ten Hag has already been made unless there’s a dramatic turnaround.
“I don’t know what to make of United anymore,” Souness said. “We’ve been having the same conversations about them for a decade, and I haven’t seen any improvements, not even under new ownership. The football knowledge at the highest level seems lacking.”
Souness also criticized Ratcliffe for the slow integration of key personnel, such as Dan Ashworth and Omar Berrada, into the club’s management structure. He hinted that a managerial change could be imminent, possibly during the next international break.
Meanwhile, former England manager Gareth Southgate, rumored as a potential replacement for Ten Hag, has distanced himself from the speculation. “I won’t coach in the next year, for sure,” Southgate stated. “I need time to make good decisions after such a big role, and there are plenty of opportunities coming my way.”
With mounting pressure and uncertainty at Old Trafford, the next few weeks could be decisive for Ten Hag and the future direction of Manchester United.