Ajax manager Erik ten Hag was coy on the subject of potentially becoming Manchester United's next permanent manager, admitting that he doesn't want to "rule anything out" concerning his future.
The Dutchman, who, as revealed by the Manchester Evening News, is United's preferred candidate to land the role, was interviewed for the job just over a week ago and is the firm favourite to replace Ralf Rangnick this summer. Ten Hag has been linked with the job at Old Trafford for several months and is a popular choice among supporters.
The battle to land the managerial hot-seat at Old Trafford looks set to be a straight shoot-out between Ten Hag and Paris Saint-Germain head coach Mauricio Pochettino. The latter is keen on the position and was prepared to leave the French giants mid-season back in November to return to England.
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However, Ten Hag is now the favourite for the role and further talks between himself and United are understood to be scheduled. Nevertheless, the Dutchman has appeared to play down the fact that he and United have held discussions.
"Everyone knows each other in the industry," Ten Hag told Sport1. "There are always talks with representatives from other clubs, that's normal.
"Manchester United is a great club with great fans. But I can only repeat myself: My full focus is completely on Ajax. We are already planning for the new season."
Contracted to the Dutch giants until the summer of 2023, Ten Hag is right to remain committed to his current role as Ajax boss. However, he has refused to rule out the possibility of leaving the club for a fresh challenge.
The Dutchman continued: "My focus is currently only on Ajax. But in football you never know. I don't want to rule anything out. I'm currently employed here at Ajax to perform.
"With the cup final against Eindhoven, we still have eight finals left, and I need all my energy for that. Anything else would just be a distraction. I know that in football everything can change from one day to the next.
"If at some point I should decide to take the next step, I hope that people here will understand."
Ten Hag, though, has not set a deadline for when he will make a decision on his future by, adding: "I've sat down with Ajax after every season so far. That will also be the case this time.
"I can say that Ajax and Erik ten Hag are very happy with each other at the moment."
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