Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag continues to receive support from key figures at Old Trafford, despite a recent 3-0 home defeat to Liverpool. The loss has left United in 14th place in the Premier League, with just three points from their first three games of the season.
United’s performance follows a challenging previous season where they finished eighth, the club's lowest position since 1990, though their FA Cup win against Manchester City provided some relief. The current situation poses a risk of replicating their worst start since the 1986-87 season, which saw them gather only one point from their first four matches before Ron Atkinson was dismissed and replaced by Sir Alex Ferguson.
Despite the recent setback, Ten Hag has the endorsement of the club’s new football structure, established by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Both Chief Executive Omar Berrada and Sporting Director Dan Ashworth have affirmed their support for the Dutch manager.
Berrada stated, "It was a decision taken prior to both of our arrivals, but we are very happy with it," and added, "Erik has our full backing. We think he is the right coach for us. We have worked very closely together in this transfer window and we are going to continue working very closely with him to help get the best results out of the team."
Ashworth, who began his role on 1 July after leaving Newcastle, has also expressed his support. He noted, "Very rarely do you go into a job as a sporting director and there is no manager in place," and emphasized his commitment to working with Ten Hag to support the team’s success. Ashworth highlighted that his role includes operational support, recruitment, and ensuring smooth training and match preparations.
During his early tenure at United, Ashworth focused on the transfer window, which saw 32 deals, including player signings, sales, and new contracts. One notable departure was Jadon Sancho’s move to Chelsea, with United still contributing to his salary. Ashworth described this outcome as beneficial for both the player and the club.
Ashworth also addressed the club's approach to player exits, stating, "We are not kicking players out of the club, but when they have a preference to move and it is right for them and us, you have to explore it, whether it's Jadon, Scott [McTominay] or Aaron [Wan-Bissaka]." He added that with sufficient depth in wide positions, the decision to let Sancho leave was deemed appropriate.
