Manchester United Stick with Erik ten Hag, but Confidence Seems Shaky

Erik ten Hag finds himself managing under microscope at Old Trafford. The reason is a tumultuous season. Manchester United plummeted in the Premier League. They also experienced failures in the Champions League. Although, the Dutchman led the club to FA Cup glory.

Just 15 months after declaring his love for the club Ten Hag struck a defiant tone. This came after the FA Cup final triumph. He hinted that he would leave if United no longer wanted him. "If they don't want me any more then I go somewhere else to win trophies. That is what I did my whole career" he said after the 2-1 victory over Manchester City.

That victory added to the emergence of young talents Alejandro Garnacho. Also, Kobbie Mainoo shone. These factors convinced the club's new ownership group led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, to retain Ten Hag's services. However the protracted nature of the decision-making process fuelled doubts. Reports that Ratcliffe met with Thomas Tuchel suggest Ten Hag's position is far from secure.

Ten Hag finds himself a rare survivor of the old regime at Old Trafford. The "winds of change" have swept away many of those who appointed him. His achievements in winning the FA Cup carry some weight. He has also developed academy prospects. However United's dismal season has clearly shaken confidence in his blueprint. Their lowest ever Premier League finish. Their worst Champions League campaign have been alarming.

Questions remain over Ten Hag's tactical approach. It at times bordered on "anarchic" as United conceded a staggering number of shots. He has won past power struggles. This includes conflict with Cristiano Ronaldo. Yet his handling of player relationships has come under scrutiny. Raphael Varane Scott McTominay and Harry Maguire have veered in and out of favor.

With new chief executive Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth set to arrive Ten Hag will now face heightened oversight from United's new brains trust. The club's transfer activity will also be closely monitored. An £85m signing of Antony in particular is under the microscope.

Ten Hag has navigated turbulent period at Old Trafford. His position remains tenuous. United's decision to retain his services. This suggests a lack of viable alternatives. The new owners demand quick return to Champions League qualification. They also seek a sustained title challenge. The Dutchman faces crucial season ahead. He will manage under the watchful eye of United hierarchy. This hierarchy remains unconvinced of his credentials.