Erik ten Hag isn't safe as Man Utd boss. (Image: Getty)
Manchester United sporting director Dan Ashworth has informed Erik ten Hag of the primary issue he must fix to save his job beyond next season. The Red Devils' decision to trigger the one-year extension in his contract rather than agree to fresh terms dispels imminent threat but indicates that the jury is still out.
Ten Hag oversaw the club's worst-ever Premier League finish last term, missing out on the European places altogether in eighth, losing 14 games.
United also finished rock-bottom of their Champions League group, managing just one win from six matches against Bayern Munich, Copenhagen and Galatasaray.
The Dutchman seemed destined for the sack ahead of the FA Cup final against Manchester City on May 25 as Sir Jim Ratcliffe drove a structural shake-up.
But United produced a spirited performance at Wembley Stadium as Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho - two academy graduates who Ten Hag established as first-team regulars - scored in a 2-1 triumph.
The surprise result displayed the tactical nous that Ten Hag possesses and the individual quality streaming through his squad.
It provided fans - who so passionately backed their manager from the stands at Wembley and Old Trafford last term - with fresh optimism that he was worth taking a chance on.
Man Utd sporting director Dan Ashworth released a statement. (Image: Getty)
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
But there is a universal acceptance that United must start producing the consistency that helped Ten Hag secure a third-place league finish and the Carabao Cup in his maiden campaign.
And Ashworth, appointed sporting director on Monday, hammered home that there is an expectancy of the same among the club's new-look hierarchy.
"With two trophies in the past two seasons, Erik has reinforced his record as one of the most consistently successful coaches in European football," a statement from Ashworth read.
"While the club's review of last season highlighted areas for improvement, it also reached a clear conclusion that Erik was the best partner for us to work with in driving up standards and outcomes.
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
"This group of players and staff have already shown they are capable of competing and winning at the top level; now we need to do it more consistently.
"With our strengthened football leadership team now in place, we are looking forward to working hand-in-hand with Erik to achieve our shared ambitions for this football club."
Ten Hag has been handed an opportunity to build on his silverware-laden first two years at Old Trafford.
But Ashworth's comments suggest that even a domestic cup every season may not save the Dutchman if there isn't improvement across the board.
