Ten Hag not under pressure to secure top-four finish for Manchester United
Ratcliffe prioritising progression of team this seasonClub eager to establish foundation for ongoing success
Erik ten Hag is not under pressure to guide Manchester United to a top-four finish next season, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe prioritising considerable progression of the team as the man in charge of football operations at United aims to establish sustained excellence there.
While Ten Hag’s ambition is to lead United to as high a position as possible and Ratcliffe’s Ineos-led football department want the same, there is a recognition there are no guarantees next season as the club rebuilds and that establishing a firm foundation will allow ongoing success. In concert with the sporting director, Dan Ashworth, Ten Hag’s remit is to significantly improve on-field performance and off-field standards. After United finishing eighth last year, their lowest of the Premier League era, there is a recognition that all areas of football policy require repurposing.