‘He will be Sack but On One Condition, if…” – Sir Alex Ferguson’s feelings on sacking Erik ten Hag emerge following showdown Man Utd talks
Former Manchester United manager and club legend, Sir Alex Ferguson, continues to stand firmly by Erik ten Hag, despite the Dutchman enduring a nightmarish start to the 2023/24 season.
Erik ten Hag retains Sir Alex Ferguson’s unwavering support, even in the face of Manchester United’s worst season kickoff in 61 years.
The 53-year-old Dutchman initially enjoyed a successful first year in charge but has faced mounting pressure in recent weeks due to a tumultuous beginning to the 2023/24 campaign, with United suffering five defeats in their opening 11 Premier League matches.
Although Ten Hag found some relief with a narrow 1-0 victory over Fulham during the weekend, his position is expected to face increased scrutiny in the upcoming weeks unless United can string together a series of positive results.
Nevertheless, Ten Hag can take comfort in the fact that he still enjoys the backing of Old Trafford’s iconic figure, Sir Alex Ferguson.
A recent report from The Sun not only affirms Ferguson’s resolute support for the former Ajax chief, but also indicates that he would encourage potential investors to stand behind Ten Hag instead of parting ways with his services.
This revelation comes on the heels of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s bid to acquire a minority 25 percent stake in the club.
If his £1.4 billion proposal is approved by the board in the coming weeks, he is likely to assume control of sporting operations.
While Ferguson’s endorsement holds immense significance, Ten Hag remains acutely aware that his position could still become untenable unless he can engineer an upturn in both results and on-field performances.
Prior to the crucial victory at Craven Cottage, Ten Hag initiated critical discussions with his squad.
Reports of internal discord and discontent with his stern coaching methods had emerged, leading the Dutchman to arrange one-on-one sessions in an attempt to address any concerns following United’s disheartening 3-0 loss to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup.
These discussions took place on Thursday and Friday, less than 24 hours before their match in the capital.
Following the talks and the subsequent win over Fulham, Ten Hag praised his players, stating, “I am pleased with the spirit of the team and with the way we pressed.
We saw this [a stoppage-time winner] against Brentford, and we have seen it again. It is a display of resilience. They understand the standards required at Manchester United – every game must be won.”
He continued, “This week, we were not satisfied with our standards, but today we improved in that regard. In every game, we must bring the battle, starting with the right mentality and attitude, demonstrating hunger, passion, and desire.”
