Sources say Man Utd are showing faith in Ten Hag by refusing to meet with agents
The article provides an interesting insight into the internal struggles and potential changes at Manchester United. The refusal to meet with agents pitching replacements for Erik ten Hag and the impending investment by Sir Jim Ratcliffe add an intriguing layer to the club’s dynamics. The future of key club officials also appears uncertain.
The image above shows the Manchester United team. Rob Dawson, a correspondent for ESPN, reported on November 13, 2023, at 7:45 AM ET that the Manchester United bosses are declining to engage in meetings with agents who are attempting to promote their clients as potential replacements for Erik ten Hag as manager.
Despite a rough start to the new campaign with nine defeats in 18 games, Ten Hag still has the support of key club officials after finishing third in the Premier League and winning the Carabao Cup last season. Sources have indicated frustration on the part of Manchester United chiefs due to agents’ attempts to thrust coaches into contention for Ten Hag’s position.
Meetings have been cancelled, including one with the representative of an unemployed well-known manager, due to concerns that the conversation would focus on the potential instability surrounding the manager’s position. United bosses have seen signs of improvement as Ten Hag’s team achieved victories over Fulham and Luton in the Premier League but suffered a 4-3 loss to FC Copenhagen in the Champions League.
However, the imminent investment by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, chairman and CEO of chemical company INEOS, is expected to create uncertainty at all levels of the club once confirmed, possibly in the coming week. Ratcliffe’s investment could also grant him influence over the football side of the business, leading to doubts about the future of current football director John Murtough.
Ratcliffe, along with INEOS director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford, is reportedly dissatisfied with Manchester United’s recruitment over the past decade and is eager to implement measures to enhance the club’s work in the transfer market. Despite this, Ratcliffe and Brailsford have recognized Ten Hag’s efforts since he began as manager in 2022, although the drop in form this season is considered concerning.
