May 7th 2024.
It's no secret that Erik ten Hag's future at Manchester United is uncertain. After a disappointing 4-0 defeat at the hands of Crystal Palace, many players are convinced that the Dutch manager's days are numbered. The pressure on him is mounting as the club continues to break records for all the wrong reasons.
Their 13th loss of the season is a new low for the club, and they are in danger of finishing with their lowest points total in Premier League history. With just four points separating them from their lowest total in the 2021-22 season, it's clear that something needs to change.
Despite the calls for his replacement, ten Hag will remain in charge until the end of the season. The FA Cup final against Manchester City on May 25th will be his final test. Last year, City defeated United 2-1 in the final, and the Red Devils will be looking for redemption.
However, with their form declining rapidly, some have suggested that the manager should be replaced before the final. Former players Paul Scholes and Michael Owen have even proposed that his assistant coach Steve McClaren should take over. But for now, ten Hag's position is secure, and the club has no plans to replace him before the final.
The decision on his future will be made at the end of the season, despite some players in the squad believing that his time is up. After the defeat at Selhurst Park, Antony, Mason Mount, and Andre Onana were seen having a private discussion as they left the pitch. Many have speculated that they were talking about their manager, and former pro Jamie Carragher has even commented on the pictures, saying they "do not look good" for ten Hag.
With just three games left in the league campaign, United's chances of a top-four finish are slim to none. They will need to win their remaining matches against Arsenal and Newcastle United at home, as well as a final day trip to Brighton. And with Newcastle and Chelsea finding form and surpassing them in the standings, United could even miss out on European qualification altogether.
Their best chance of playing in Europe next season will be by defeating City in the FA Cup final. But with their current form, it's hard to say if they will be able to pull off the upset. Regardless, ten Hag's future hangs in the balance, and only time will tell if he will remain at the helm of Manchester United.
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