Erik ten Hag has already made his feelings clear on Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of his possible appointment at Manchester United.
According to the Manchester Evening News, the Ajax boss has emerged as United’s preferred candidate to become the club’s next permanent manager. They have not made a final decision on their next manager, but still intend to make an appointment before the end of the campaign.
PSG boss Mauricio Pochettino remains under huge consideration, while United refused to rule out an approach for Thomas Tuchel amid the uncertainty at Chelsea. It’s Ten Hag though that now looks to be leading the way in their search.
United have been impressed by Ten Hag’s ability to assemble two successful teams after the sales of Matthijs de Ligt and Frenkie de Jong in 2019. Having joined Ajax in 2017, the manager’s potential for a long stint in charge also appeals to the club.
The 52-year-old is under contract at Ajax until next year, and would command a low compensation fee. Should he make the move to United, he would face a huge task this summer.
The Red devils face a big turnover of players at the end of the campaign after a dismal season. Players like Paul Pogba, Cavani, Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial all look set to leave, while Ronaldo’s future is uncertain.
The Portuguese star still has one year left on his deal after making his return to United last summer, but he could look to move on — particularly if they don’t qualify for the Champions League. Ten Hag, though, has already said he is an admirer of Ronaldo’s, which could leave the door open for him to stay.
Speaking before coming up against Juventus in 2019, Ten Hag said: “I think it’s nice if Ronaldo plays. We want to play against the best possible opponent. That’s a challenge and we like to face challenges. It’s fantastic if you can compete against a player like Ronaldo.”
Ten Hag and Pochettino remain the frontrunners for the job, and talks with either manager could be smoother after their respective sides’ exits from the Champions League.
Meanwhile, Pochettino is expected to be sacked by Paris Saint-Germain, with United having explored the possibility of releasing Pochettino from his contract in November.
