Ten Hag faces Man Utd axe as Ratcliffe lines up exciting replacement

Tom Weber

• Updated: 24 Feb 2024 18:04 GMT
• 3 min read

INEOS are eyeing Julian Nagelsmann as a potential replacement for Erik ten Hag, according to a report.

The Manchester United boss is once again under fire. Left without a recognised number nine due to Rasmus Hojlund's injury, the Red Devils succumbed to a punishing 2-1 defeat against Fulham, after which Ten Hag's squad selection and tactical set-up came under intense scrutiny.

A lot has been said about the Dutchman's future this term. While a recent run of good form has papered over the cracks somewhat, there is no denying that Man Utd are enduring a miserable campaign. Indeed, new minority stakeholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe, now in charge of sporting operations, has thus far refused to really give Ten Hag a proper vote of confidence.

The INEOS chief and his men will be a lot more ruthless when it comes to recruitment and managerial decisions compared to what has previously been seen at Man Utd. As such, there is no guarantee that Ten Hag will keep his job beyond this season and results such as the Fulham one will make his position increasingly untenable.

Nagelsman eyed

Unsurprisingly, then, the Red Devils continue to be linked with big-name managers. In light of the news of Thomas Tuchel departing Bayern Munich at the end of the season, he has been the subject of speculation as he is reportedly keen on the job at Old Trafford.

However, it is quite evident that Man Utd should avoid Tuchel at all costs, his magic having long since disappeared. Nevertheless, a German could be in the dugout next season, at least according to Sports Zone.

The outlet reports that ex-Bayern coach Julian Nagelsmann is a 'priority target' for INEOS and that the 36-year-old would relish the chance of being in charge of the Red Devils, reportedly eyeing the gig since last summer. There is a significant problem when it comes to Nagelsmann, however.

He is currently in charge of the German national team and will be until Euro 2024, meaning that he wouldn't be able to start in his new role until relatively late in the summer. Should Ten Hag be sacked, Man Utd would ideally want their new coach to be at the club at the start of preseason, not at the end.