Struggling Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has said the situation surrounding his future at the club is “quiet” behind the scenes despite media “lies” and “fairytales”.
Ten Hag survived a meeting of Manchester United’s executive committee during the international break but remains the favourite to lose his job at a top-flight club after a dismal run of form including three defeats and one win in United’s last six league games.
“The noise is only coming from the media – from some of you, not all of you – creating stories and fairytales, bringing lies,” Ten Hag said, having guided the club closer to the relegation zone than the top five in the table after the opening seven games.
“I know we’re on one page within this club. I said before the break but several journalists probably didn’t believe me. Within the club, it’s quiet.”
Going through the gears ⚙️⚡️#MUFC || #PL pic.twitter.com/34cghb38xN
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 18, 2024
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Ten Hag: Tuchel ‘very good choice’
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos Group, who oversee United’s footballing operations, gave Ten Hag a new contract during the summer and are thought to be reluctant to dismiss the beleaguered Dutchman.
Thomas Tuchel was heavily linked with Ten Hag’s role before being appointed England manager on Wednesday, while Thomas Frank, whose Brentford side visit United on Saturday (3pm BST), is among the other managers likely to be considered if Ineos decide to make a change.
“It is a very good choice from the FA,” Ten Hag said of Tuchel’s new position. “He is a top-class manager and has proved himself. England have world-class players. They have the opportunity to win big championships.”
Man United vs Brentford
Brentford are yet to collect a Premier League away point this season but are two points above United following a 5-3 home win over Wolves last time out.
“We have to climb a mountain but that’s [elite] football,” reflected Ten Hag. “Sometimes you have to face challenges but I’m sure we will create success, just like we did in the last two seasons.
#PL preparations 🔋#MUFC pic.twitter.com/1YCRwSIEni
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 18, 2024
“I see the good things, good patterns and the good stats that confirm we’re going in a good direction. But the ranking doesn’t lie and where we are isn’t good enough.”
Man United injuries, team news
Defender Harry Maguire and midfielder Kobbie Mainoo are out for “a couple of weeks”, Ten Hag said, adding that Noussair Mazraoui is available following minor heart surgery.
Fellow full-backs Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia remain out. “We can’t force their return and have to do it [in a] clever [way],” said Ten Hag.
“We don’t want them to return and quickly drop out. But we hope they come back as soon as possible because this team needs a left-back.”
