Sir Jim Ratcliffe ignores question about Erik ten Hag’s future at Man Utd
Sir Jim Ratcliffe praised Manchester United for their victory over Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday – but brushed off a reporter when asked about Erik ten Hag’s future as manager.
Goals from youngster Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo helped the Red Devils to a 2-1 win at Wembley Stadium after a week full of speculation over the Ten Hag’s position at Old Trafford.
Reports suggested that United had decided to sack Ten Hag after the cup final regardless of the result, and the Dutchman gave a defiant response after the victory.
Speaking about the win, Ratcliffe said: “It’s a great feeling to win the FA Cup final at Wembley.
“Manchester United were obviously not favorites to win today but they played with absolute commitment and skill and beat one of the biggest teams in football. We are all proud of the players and staff who work so hard to support them.”
However, when asked if Ten Hag would stay on as manager next season, Ratcliffe turned his back and walked away.
Ratcliffe will lead a post-season review of the club’s performances this season next week alongside United officials Sir Dave Brailsford, Jean Claude-Blanc and Jason Wilcox.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is silent on the future of Erik ten Hag 🤫 pic.twitter.com/WACHH9pIA
– Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 25, 2024
Managerial candidates have been scouted by United, with Kieran McKenna, Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Tuchel and Thomas Frank all interested in Ratcliffe and INEOS.
The Ten Hag has had to battle criticism for much of his second season at Old Trafford, a campaign that has seen his injury-hit squad slip to eighth in the Premier League, and he has mocked Red Devils legend Roy Keane as he discusses the all-important Wembley. success.
An FA Cup victory means United will play in the Europa League next season, relegating Chelsea to the Conference League and denying Newcastle United any continental action in 2024/25.
