Manchester United have reportedly decided to sack manager Erik ten Hag, regardless of Saturday's FA Cup final outcome. According to Gianluca Di Marzio, via SoccerNews.nl, the Dutchman will leave the club this summer. Even if Ten Hag manages to secure a victory against Manchester City in the final, it won't be enough to save his job. The club is searching for a new manager to lead the Red Devils into the next season.

Ten Hag's Future in Doubt

Ten Hag's tenure at Manchester United has been marked by a challenging season. The team finished eighth in the Premier League with a negative goal difference. They will only qualify for European football next season if they defeat Manchester City in the FA Cup final. This underperformance has jeopardized Ten Hag's future, prompting the club to explore other managerial options.

Several names have already been linked with the managerial position at Old Trafford. Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna, England manager Gareth Southgate, former Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel, and recently unemployed Mauricio Pochettino. Each candidate brings different skills and experiences, making the decision crucial for the club's future success.

Di Marzio highlighted McKenna as a prominent candidate due to his impressive work at Ipswich Town. “McKenna is the man of the moment in the football world, in the world of coaches, because he is doing great at Ipswich Town. He is the number-one choice at Brighton & Hove Albion, but he has already spoken to Manchester United. At the end of the season, United will say goodbye to Ten Hag,” said Di Marzio.

The uncertainty surrounding Ten Hag's position has led to speculation about who will take over. Mauricio Pochettino and Kieran McKenna are considered the front-runners. Pochettino, with his vast experience in top-tier football, and McKenna, known for his tactical prowess and recent success, are both strong contenders. Di Marzio mentioned that if McKenna chooses Chelsea, Manchester United will likely pursue Pochettino.

Manchester United is one of many clubs seeking a new manager this summer. Other major clubs, such as Bayern Munich, Juventus, Brighton, and Chelsea, also hunt for first-team coaches. Additionally, there are rumors that Barcelona might part ways with Xavi, adding another high-profile club to the list of those seeking new leadership.

This widespread search for managers indicates a volatile market, with several big names potentially moving clubs. The competition for top managerial talent is fierce, and Manchester United must act swiftly and decisively to secure the right candidate.

What Lies Ahead for Manchester United?

The upcoming managerial change at Manchester United is pivotal for the club. The next manager will inherit a squad that has struggled this season but still possesses considerable talent and potential. The club's leadership must ensure that the new appointment aligns with their long-term vision and strategy.

Moreover, the new manager will face immediate pressure to deliver results, as Manchester United's expectations remain high. The success of this transition will significantly impact the club's performance in domestic and European competitions.

Ten Hag's time at Manchester United appears to have ended, regardless of the final result of the FA Cup. The club's decision to part ways with him and the subsequent search for a new manager marks a critical juncture. As United navigates this transition, their choices will significantly impact their future performance and success. The football world will watch closely how this high-stakes situation unfolds at Old Trafford. The next few months will be crucial for Manchester United as they strive to return to the pinnacle of English and European football.