Man Utd hierarchy name the likely manager to replace Erik ten Hag during meeting

various arguments were made about whether Ten Hag should stay or be dismissed, with Ratcliffe requesting detailed analyses of all possible outcomes.

Although no official decision has been announced, it is reported that during the meeting, Thomas Tuchel was mentioned as the most likely candidate to replace Ten Hag if United decides to make a change.

Tuchel, who had discussions with United last summer and even had lunch with Ratcliffe, came close to taking the job at that time, though non-football-related reasons reportedly prevented the move. Despite recent speculation, sources close to Tuchel insist there has been no communication so far.

However, a separate report suggests that if Tuchel does take over at Old Trafford, he has already identified Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo as a priority signing.

After the meeting, Ratcliffe is said to have exited through the back door to avoid questions from waiting reporters.

Speaking about the situation recently, Ratcliffe said: “I like Erik. I think he’s a very good coach but at the end of the day it’s not my call.

“But that team that’s running Manchester United has only been together since June or July. They weren’t there in January, February, March or April – [CEO] Omar [Berrada], [sporting director] Dan Ashworth – they only arrived in July. They’ve only been there… you can count it in weeks almost – they’ve not been there a long time, so they need to take stock and make some sensible decisions.”