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| Erik Ten Hag will stay on as Manchester United's manager but, he will have reduced powers on transfer and general recruitments. (Photo credit: Sky Sports) |
Manchester United's club hierarchy has decided to extend Erik Ten Hag's contract after a thorough season review.
The club endured a torrid season under the 54-year-old Dutchman but ended on a high with their 13th FA Cup trophy. The league saw United finish 8th, while the UEFA Champions League knocked them out in the group stage, leaving them fourth behind Copenhagen.
Although it appeared that Ten Hag's time at the club was running out, the cup success may have given him more time, as the new owners are willing to give him a chance to turn things around in the upcoming season, but they are also unwilling to give him complete control over transfers.
Ten Hag had complete veto power over recruitment decisions when he signed on to become club manager, but after signing players like Antony and Tyrel Malacia, both of whom struggled to make an impact on the team, the INEOS group is now delegating recruitment authority to club officers.
Erik Ten Hag would have "a voice" in transfers under the new management structure at Old Trafford, but his redefined role would focus on managing and coaching a squad that he largely assembled.
Technical director Jason Wilsox and Chief Scout Steve Brown have been handling transfer businesses, with United's incoming technical director Dan Ashworth still on gardening leave at Newcastle and not expected to fully join the Red Devils until the start of July.
In addition to players, the club is also reviewing the roles of some members of Ten Hag's coaching staff. Benni McCarthy remains popular with the Dutchman, but the hierarchy would rather have external support for Steve McLauren and Mitchel Van De Gaag.
The United Board is moving toward building a system that functions regardless of personnel, as opposed to how Ten Hag builds his formations around certain individuals. Talks will take place in the coming days, with all parties interested in forging ahead.