Manchester United 'make Erik ten Hag sack decision ahead of FA Cup final'

The Dutchman's position has been the subject of much speculation since Sir Jim Ratcliffe's INEOS group purchased a majority stake in the club earlier this season.

Having assumed control of the club's football operations, there has been the suggestion that Ratcliffe could opt for a change of manager this summer.

Ten Hag has struggled for success in his second season at Old Trafford, having seen his side crash out of the Champions Legaue group stage and finish in a disappointing eighth position in the Premier League - the club's lowest finish since 1989-90.

The 54-year-old could still claim silverware before the end of the campaign, with Man United set to face local rivals Man City in Saturday's FA Cup final at Wembley.

Man United preparing to sack Ten Hag

However, according to The Guardian, the Man United hierarchy have already decided they will sack Ten Hag after the FA Cup final.

The report claims that Ten Hag will be relieved of his duties even if he guides the club to their first FA Cup success in eight years.

Incidentally, Louis van Gaal was in charge when Man United clinched the trophy in 2015-16, only to be removed from his post just 24 hours after he led Man United to a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace at Wembley.

Man United maintain that a final decision is yet to be made, with the club set to discuss Ten Hag's future at the end-of-season review.

Who could replace Ten Hag?

If Ten Hag is removed from his position, it would represent another significant step in Ratcliffe's overhaul of the club's football operations.

Ratcliffe has appointed Jason Wilcox as technical director and Omar Berrada as the new chief executive, while he is looking to recruit Dan Ashworth as sporting director.

The Man United hierarchy have reportedly drawn up a four-man shortlist of potential successors to Ten Hag, including former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel.

The German is believed to be the frontrunner to replace Ten Hag after recently leaving his role as Bayern Munich head coach.

Man United have also held talks with Kieran McKenna's representatives, having identified the Ipswich Town boss as a potential candidate.

Pochettino is also believed to be on Man United's radar following his recent departure from Chelsea, while Brentford boss Thomas Frank is another name that is being considered.