According to talkSPORT’s Jason Cundy, Manchester United’s decision to provide Erik ten Hag with a one-year contract extension is a clear indication that they are “not backing” their manager.
Before embarking on a career in broadcasting, Cundy was a player for Spurs and Chelsea. He has expressed his dissatisfaction with United’s subpar start to the 2024/25 season under Ten Hag.
He is of the opinion that the Dutchman is operating on borrowed time at Old Trafford and has identified Ruud van Nistelrooy, a United icon and Ten Hag’s new right-hand man, as the most probable successor.
Following the club’s disappointing performance last season, which resulted in their lowest-ever Premier League finish of eighth place, United’s leadership elected to maintain their partnership with Ten Hag. Nevertheless, he was granted an additional year of employment this July as a result of his victory in the FA Cup final against Manchester City.
Ten Hag’s future has once again been called into doubt, despite the fact that United has spent over £150 million on five significant acquisitions to strengthen Ten Hag’s squad. The team has lost two out of three Premier League games, including a 3-0 loss to arch-rivals Liverpool.
talkSPORT host Cundy cautioned that a defeat to Southampton on Saturday (12.30 pm) could result in Ten Hag’s demise. As reported by the Mirror, he contended that the United board has demonstrated a lack of faith by extending his contract by only one year and having Van Nistelrooy prepared to take over.
Cundy stated, “They allowed him to add an additional year to his year.” That is not endorsing the manager; rather, it is akin to declaring, “We have conducted a thorough examination, conducted a sniff test, and have determined that there is no one in the vicinity whom we prefer. Therefore, we will continue to employ this unpleasant odour.” They essentially believe that it is preferable to be acquainted with the demon at this time.
He further stated, “Ten Hag is currently in a deep hole.” The proprietors have not provided him with any support. Giving a manager a one-year extension is one of the most egregious attempts to demonstrate support. [Regarding the athletes that Ten Hag desired], it is the endeavour that is being supported, not him. Provide him with a three-year contract.
“If you are truly supporting the manager, express to him, ‘I have complete faith in you. Let’s proceed with this immediately. Let’s add an additional three years to the existing one, resulting in a total of four years.'” They are currently contemplating the possibility of enlisting Van Nistelrooy’s assistance, as there is nothing available that they are interested in.
He concluded, “It is evident that this will result in a certain outcome.” Ten Hag, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the athletes, and Van Nistelrooy are all aware of this. It is merely a question of when.
