Erik ten Hag sack would hit Manchester United in the pocket

Manchester United co-chairman Joel Glazer and co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe are believed to be leading the club’s end-of-season review that will determine whether Erik ten Hag remains in his job.

I find it extremely difficult to see how Joel, or any Glazer for the matter, can constructively involve oneself at a football-related meeting.

Do other members of United’s board sit and listen to Joel Glazer’s feelings on key areas such as results and performance, playing style and tactics, or dressing-room relations?

Meanwhile, the season review will include input from technical director Jason Wilcox and United director Sir Dave Brailsford.

One side issue they must consider with any decision to dismiss Ten Hag will be his compensation package. A hefty one no doubt.

According to BBC Sport, Saturday’s FA Cup triumph means United will have to pay Ten Hag more to remove him as the Reds secure their place in next season’s Europa League.

With United forced to sell players this summer, I don’t think Ineos have money sitting around to sack Ten Hag without putting the club under serious financial pressure when it’s an issue they are trying to address

The Sun claims Ten Hag will be due £9m if he is given the boot, unless there is a reduction in his wage due to failing to qualify for the Champions League.

Ten Hag will reportedly face a pay cut of £6.75m per year if he stays, as per ESPN, due to missing out on the Champions League.

However, prior to the 2-1 FA Cup win over Man City, The Guardian suggested Ten Hag would lose his job regardless of the result.

The mood has changed every so slightly on that front as fans want Ten Hag to remain as manager for a third campaign.

Ten Hag has endured a difficult second season at Old Trafford, finishing eighth in the Premier League and crashing out of the Champions League during the group stages.

That said, Ten Hag can now boast two trophies in as many years at United. There was a five-year trophy drought when he arrived at Old Trafford.

Subscribe to the Stretty News podcast Strettycast for weekly episodes on Manchester United. You can also sign up to the ad-free Stretty Newsletter. Get the Stretty News verdict on all matters Manchester United.