The big reason why Man Utd are keeping Ten Hag

Jacque Talbot

• Updated: 10 Oct 2024 15:40 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United may have to fork out £12 million should they decide to sack Erik ten Hag, with it believed to a major reason why Ineos have not done so yet.

The Dutchman is under increasing pressure and United chiefs had a meeting earlier this week where they opted to keep him at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils are 14th in the Premier League table, having picked up just eight points from their opening seven games, while they are winless in five matches across all competitions, with a Premier League match against Brentford next..

READ MORE: It's official! Man Utd suffer WORST EVER START in Premier League history

The Telegraph have reported today that United will have to pay a huge sum if they relieved Ten Hag of his duties, something they can't do owing to PSR rules. The outlet said: "It is thought sacking Ten Hag – who took a hit to his reputed £9 million-a-year salary this season following the club’s failure to qualify for the Champions League – could cost up to £14 million.

"That is a substantial figure at a time when United are operating under tight financial constraints in order to comply with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules."

Southgate opens up on United

Former England manager Gareth Southgate is one of numerous candidates linked with the job if Ten Hag does leave.

Ineos have not made a comment on the future of the former Ajax boss, but the feeling is that he will stay for now. Indeed, A six-hour board meeting during the international break has seemingly failed to resolve the impasse.

READ MORE: How Man Utd would line up under Gareth Southgate

Southgate is certainly not exerting pressure on Man Utd’s ownership group and speaking at the European Club Association (ECA) General Assembly in Athens, he refuted claims that he is ready to jump at the chance of managing the Old Trafford side.

“I won’t coach in the next year, for sure. I’m certain of that. I need to give myself time to make good decisions. When you come out of a really big role you need to give your body time, you need to give your mind time,” Southgate said.

“I am fortunate there are lots of opportunities presenting themselves.”