Erik ten Hag has asserted his commitment to achieving more success, even if this means leaving Manchester United, following a surprise victory against Manchester City in the FA Cup. Persistent rumours regarding the Dutch trainer’s position have grown amid a disappointing second season, climaxing just before the final when it was suggested he was facing dismissal, regardless of the match’s outcome at Wembley.
The consensus was that City would nab another domestic double, but United had a different plan in mind. Young talents Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo catapulted the unlikely victors into a state of euphoria, and, in spite of Jeremy Doku’s last-minute attempt, United persevered to claim a 2-1 victory, securing their second trophy in two years.
Whether the triumphant FA Cup win will be sufficient for ambitious Ineos to retain the troubled Ten Hag is a question that remains unanswered.
“I don’t trouble myself with those thoughts,” stated the United chief. “We’re on course with our project. We’re piecing together a squad for the long run, despite the challenges, since United was in disorder when I came on board.
“The team shows signs of growth and success. Ultimately, it’s about trophy victories and maintaining a sense of identity.
“What’s needed, especially in English football, is a fit, robust squad. There is still a considerable amount of work to be done, but we see promising value and progression in our potent squad.
“Winning two trophies in as many years, reaching three finals – these accomplishments are far from trivial. Yet, the aim is to push forward.
“If my services are no longer desired, I’ll go wherever necessary to persist in my trophy-winning career,” vowed Ten Hag, repeating the striking comment in a post-match press conference which he attended without the trophy, a contrast to his entrance after the Carabao Cup win last year.
In Ten Hag’s maiden season, they finished third and reached the FA Cup final, but this season they landed in eighth place – their lowest position in the Premier League era. While an extensive list of injuries provides some grounds for leniency, and the recent win highlights Ten Hag’s potential, it’s unclear whether this will be enough to secure his continued tenure.
Ex-Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson was glowing as he strolled down Wembley tunnel, hailing it as an “extraordinary” victory, whereas Jim Ratcliffe, the United co-owner, declined to comment on the future of the manager. Ratcliffe’s silence on the issue in a subsequent statement did little to quell fears that Ten Hag might face dismissal as his fellow countryman Louis van Gaal did in 2016, despite his triumph in the FA Cup.
Ratcliffe expressed delight over the win in the FA Cup final at Wembley. He stated, “It’s a splendid feeling. Despite not being the preferred victor, Manchester United put on a display of sheer dedication and prowess, defeating one of the titans of the game. Everyone associated with the club, players and supporting staff, who invest relentless efforts, has reason to be immensely proud.”
In an interview held on the day of the match, Ten Hag voiced irritation when queried about the timing of Ratcliffe’s team’s decision. He said that Ineos confirmed their desire to continue their association with him. “How many repetitions do you require? It feels like a broken record,” declared a frustrated Ten Hag. “The assurances don’t have to be weekly. However, their intentions have been frequently communicated. If wishes change, I’ll be informed.”
The swirl of rumours before the match and persistent probing questions afterwards slightly dimmed the radiance of United’s significant victory, with the men’s team mirroring the success of their FA Cup-winning women’s team. “Difficult as they are to compare, clinching the FA Cup was undoubtedly a goal of mine,” said Ten Hag. “It’s a monumental trophy. I’m ecstatic about our win, which exemplifies a true group effort.”