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| Erik Ten Hag |
Manchester United is set to part ways with under-fire manager Erik ten Hag following the FA Cup final against Manchester City, irrespective of the outcome at Wembley, as per reports released on Friday.
The Guardian, a British newspaper, reported that the Premier League club has made the decision to take drastic action following a disappointing season.
If Ten Hag's tenure ends after the clash with City, it would bring back memories of Louis van Gaal's departure from Old Trafford. Van Gaal was fired just two days after United's FA Cup final win against Crystal Palace in 2016.
This season, United finished in a humiliating eighth place in the Premier League, their lowest position since 1990, and were eliminated from the Champions League in the group stage.
There has been intense speculation about Ten Hag's future, especially after Jim Ratcliffe, a British billionaire, acquired a minority stake in the club and assumed control of football operations.
United has stated that no decision has been made regarding the Dutchman's future and a comprehensive review will take place after the showpiece match against the Premier League champions on Saturday.
The club has been linked with several potential replacements, including Thomas Tuchel, Mauricio Pochettino, Gareth Southgate, and Kieran McKenna, the current Ipswich boss who previously coached at Old Trafford.
United goalkeeper Andre Onana, who also played under Ten Hag at Ajax, expressed that the final is an "extra motivation" after a season plagued by injuries and underperforming star players.
Onana defended his manager, describing him as a "good guy" and a "good coach" who is tactically astute.
“If the entire squad were available, the outcome would likely be altered. This particular season has presented challenges for him, for us as a team, for the club, and for the fans.”
The upcoming match on Saturday provides an opportunity for United to compete for a trophy against their fierce rivals, as well as a chance to secure qualification for the Europa League.
"It would certainly improve the overall outlook," expressed Onana, who has experienced ups and downs during his debut season at Old Trafford.
"It holds significance to finish on a positive note, and emerging victorious in this game would guarantee our place in the Europa League."