Erik ten Hag, the current manager of Manchester United, is keen on persuading the potential new investors, Ineos, that he is the right person to lead the team into the future. Despite his ambitions, a recent uninspiring performance resulting in a draw at Old Trafford against Burnley has cast doubts on his ability to propel the team forward. In a post-match interview with MUTV, ten Hag expressed his frustration over the team’s failure to secure a win and maintain a clean sheet after establishing a dominant position in the game.
The uncertainty surrounding ten Hag’s role for the 2024/25 season is palpable, with Ineos remaining tight-lipped about his future with the club. Manchester United is currently struggling to maintain a position above sixth in the Premier League, following a disappointing season that also witnessed an early exit from the Champions League group stages. Amidst this turmoil, there have been rumors linking 16 different managers as potential replacements for ten Hag. However, the Dutchman still has an opportunity to shape his destiny with the club. A strong finish to the season, coupled with a victory in the FA Cup final against their city rivals, could bolster his case for retention.
In the midst of this speculation, former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has voiced his support for Thomas Tuchel, the departing Bayern Munich manager, as a suitable candidate for the managerial role at Old Trafford.
Schmeichel, who was recently seen with Ineos head Sir Jim Ratcliffe, praised Tuchel’s managerial acumen and likened his authoritative presence to that of Jurgen Klopp. In an interview with BeIN Sports, Schmeichel acknowledged Tuchel’s unfortunate timing at previous clubs but commended his achievements, including a Champions League victory with Chelsea.
Schmeichel clarified that while he is not directly endorsing Tuchel for the Manchester United job, he believes that Tuchel’s profile fits the caliber of manager the club should consider if they are in search of a new leader. Tuchel’s name has emerged as one of the favorites for the position, with reports from Germany indicating his interest in the role. Nonetheless, questions remain about Tuchel’s potential longevity at Manchester United, given his track record of relatively short tenures at other major clubs and the need for a long-term solution at Old Trafford. Tuchel’s history with Borussia Dortmund, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich shows a pattern of success but also a tendency to move on after a few seasons. This pattern, combined with Manchester United’s own history of managerial changes, suggests that even if Tuchel were to be appointed, the club might find itself in search of yet another manager in the near future.
