Peter Schmeichel expresses deep sympathy for one Manchester United player.

The initial honeymoon period for Ineos at Manchester United seems to be drawing to a close, as the focus shifts towards business and decision-making. Despite various mitigating factors, including the necessity for the Red Devils to sell before they can buy, some of the more impatient members of the Manchester United fanbase are expressing concern.

The entire Erik ten Hag saga, meanwhile, arguably raised more questions than it answered. Many fans and analysts are divided on whether Ineos handled the situation appropriately. It’s important to remember that Manchester United endured their worst-ever Premier League finish last season, ending in eighth place. The team finished with a goal difference of minus one, relinquished their hold on the EFL Cup meekly, and exited the Champions League at the group stage.

Moreover, Erik ten Hag was appointed long before Ineos finalized their deal with the Glazers. Understandably, the new decision-makers wanted to explore all options, reportedly holding discussions with Roberto de Zerbi, Roberto Martinez, Marco Silva, and Mauricio Pochettino.

Erik ten Hag’s Future at Manchester United

Despite these deliberations, Erik ten Hag remains at Manchester United for now. However, legendary former goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel expressed unease about how Ten Hag was kept waiting for clarity regarding his future at Old Trafford. This public ordeal suggested that the Dutchman might not have the full confidence of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his team.

“I am not surprised as such (that Ten Hag is staying). I am surprised about the time it took to come to that conclusion,” Schmeichel told talkSPORT on June 20. “I feel a bit sorry for Erik, that he had to go through all that just having won the FA Cup. He had to wait three weeks where he knew they were speaking to other people. I didn’t feel that was right. But it’s how they have chosen to do it. He stays. There is obviously a project there, he has been very, very clear that he wants to continue that project. He thinks it’s in the right direction, probably been hampered by injuries so it’s stopped a little in its tracks. I just feel that wasn’t the right way to do it.”

Future Prospects for Erik ten Hag

Erik ten Hag’s current contract runs until 2025. There is an expectation that he will be offered a new deal to provide some stability, especially given that he is the first manager since Sir Alex Ferguson to win trophies in successive seasons at United. However, Ten Hag himself insists that it’s not just a matter of signing a new contract.

United’s Path in the Ineos Era

There is speculation about whether the relationship between Ineos and Ten Hag is one of true belief or mere convenience. Ineos considered other candidates like Thomas Tuchel before deciding to stick with Ten Hag. Was this due to a lack of better alternatives, or do they genuinely believe Ten Hag is the right man to lead United forward in the long term?

“If I am a player in the squad, I would feel that my manager has been undermined and will I have the same respect for him? Will I think he is secure in his job? That is the question (that will arise) when the guy they really want is available,” Schmeichel pondered. “I don’t think that Manchester United, in this particular time, need all this uncertainty. I have got to be honest, I feel really, really sorry for him.”

As Manchester United moves forward in the Ineos era, it’s clear that significant challenges and decisions lie ahead. The club must navigate these complexities to ensure stability and progress, while keeping the fanbase reassured and focused on a brighter future.