Manchester United appear to have finally come to a decision over their next manager, with reports suggesting that Ajax boss Erik ten Hag is set to take the reins at Old Trafford. The Dutchman has long been linked with a move to the Red Devils as Ralf Rangnick’s successor but was not the only candidate in the frame.
However, after a lengthy process, it appears that United appear to have finally settled on the man to take the reins. According to The Telegraph, the Red Devils are ‘closing in’ on the appointment of the current Ajax boss and whilst a deal is not yet signed, it is suggested that a deal is progressing.
Any appointment would see German Rangnick step aside at the end of the season having been in charge since being named as interim boss following the sacking of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Meanwhile, Ten Haag’s arrival is surely set to make United’s Premier League rivals including Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur all sit up and take notice.
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The four clubs are currently embroiled in a battle to earn a place in the Champions League ahead of next season. United are at the back of the pack having struggled with inconsistency since Rangnick assumed control. However, with uncertainty over the managerial situation resolved, that could well allow United to focus solely on finishing in the top-four which could potentially have the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur looking over their shoulder with slight concern.
Despite that, the Blues are also likely to be relieved by the news that United appear to have finally settled on a candidate. It was previously reported that the Red Devils could have an eye on current Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel, with uncertainty over his future stemming from the current takeover situation at Stamford Bridge.
Whilst the ex-Paris Saint-Germain boss has done nothing but outline his commitment to the reigning European champions, Ten Hag’s expected appointment will put to bed any rumours of a move to Old Trafford in the immediate future at the very least.
Speaking about a potential switch last month, Tuchel said: "No reaction at all. Do you feel me less committed to the club or less involved in the club in my situation? I think absolutely not, I love to be here and I love to work for Chelsea."
"This club has everything it needs to make me happy and that's why it's no need and we have plenty of reasons to stay in the moment here and that's what we're doing."
