- Manchester United opted to continue with Ten Hag after exploring other options
- The Dutch manager received a one-year contract extension following their FA Cup victory
- The Red Devils have revamped their footballing structure in preparation for the new season
Former Manchester United star Roy Keane believes that Erik ten Hag’s unexpected FA Cup victory played a crucial role in his retention as manager, though he cautions that significant improvements are needed from the team.
The Dutch coach faced job insecurity after a disappointing Premier League and European season, culminating in an eighth-place finish and an early exit from the Champions League.
However, the Red Devils surprised many by defeating Manchester City 2-1 in the final match of the domestic season.
Keane, who enjoyed a successful 12-year career at Old Trafford with 475 appearances, stated that Ten Hag’s victory has given him some ‘breathing room’ ahead of what is likely to be a pivotal season for the club under new football leadership.
‘The cup win has afforded him [Erik ten Hag] some breathing space, which is well-deserved, but he cannot afford to finish eighth next year,’ Keane remarked during an appearance on Stick to Football, powered by Sky Bet.
Roy Keane believes Erik ten Hag’s FA Cup victory gave him breathing room.
The Dutch manager led an unexpected win over Manchester City at Wembley last season.
Jim Ratcliffe considered replacing Ten Hag before deciding he was the best choice.
‘Next year, they [Manchester United] need to aim for a top-four finish. While winning will be challenging, competing is vital. Their performances over the past year in the league have been highly disappointing.’
Under the new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his Ineos group, the club is undergoing a significant restructuring of its footballing operations to return to past successes.
The Red Devils have brought in Omar Berrada from City as their new CEO, Jason Wilcox as technical director, and Dan Ashworth is expected to join as sporting director following a lengthy and tumultuous exit from Newcastle.
Ten Hag has also been granted an extension to his contract, which was set to expire at the end of the upcoming season, and Keane believes this is essential to signal the club’s confidence in the former Ajax coach.
‘He had only a year left on his contract, and they wanted to eliminate uncertainty heading into the season,’ said the former United captain. ‘The terms remain unchanged, and it doesn’t mean they can’t decide to dismiss him by October or November; it’s merely a gesture of support.’
The 54-year-old will work under the club’s new football structure.
After losing to Arsenal, United will play matches against Real Betis and Liverpool.
The Premier League giants are currently on their pre-season tour of the United States, which began with a 2-1 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday. They will face Real Betis in California on Sunday, followed by an exciting match against Liverpool on August 4.
Additionally, they have the Community Shield match against City the following Saturday before commencing their league campaign against Fulham on August 16.
