With frustration mounting over Manchester United’s recent form, respected journalist Fabrizio Romano reports that Erik ten Hag is under intense scrutiny following a 1-1 draw with Fenerbahce in the Europa League.
The lackluster performance has stirred strong reactions from both fans and pundits, including outspoken former Liverpool player Jamie Carragher. Carragher, who has often been critical of United, openly questioned Ten Hag’s ability to lead the team back to its former glory.
Carragher’s critique of United’s showing against an aging Fenerbahce squad highlights his disappointment with Ten Hag’s approach. “Fenerbahce—a team full of older, discarded players—still managed to hold United to a draw, while Ten Hag, despite massive spending, failed to secure a win,” Carragher observed.
He also took issue with Ten Hag’s tactical choices, pointing to the decision to play Mazraoui in the No. 10 role. Carragher argued this choice lacked logic, stating, “If people think he’s the one to restore United’s glory, they’re mistaken. The game was already lost at team selection.” His blunt comments echo the broader concerns of fans who are increasingly critical of United’s inconsistent performance this season.
The former Liverpool defender’s remarks have only fueled discontent among United supporters, who are frustrated by a winless streak in European competition. The fact that United struggled to secure a win against Fenerbahce—a team often seen as weaker opposition—has compounded fans’ dissatisfaction.
Following the draw, the hashtag “#TenHagOut” surged on social media, reflecting fans’ growing doubts about Ten Hag’s leadership. The online reaction suggests that many fans are beginning to question whether the investment in new players under Ten Hag has delivered the results they had hoped for.
Amid this turmoil, Ten Hag faces an uncertain future, with speculation growing about potential changes in the club’s management. Reports indicate that the United board may be considering alternative managerial candidates should Ten Hag’s results not improve in the coming months. Carragher’s critique has intensified the debate, adding further pressure on Ten Hag to address United’s away record and inconsistent form.
Meanwhile, rumors linking Zinedine Zidane to Manchester United have resurfaced. The French legend, who has been without a managerial role since his successful tenure at Real Madrid, is reportedly a leading candidate should United opt to part ways with Ten Hag.
Zidane’s recent visit to Real Betis, where his son trains, reignited speculation that he may be open to a return to management. Although the visit was personal, it has stirred hope among United fans who dream of Zidane taking the helm.
Zidane has long been viewed as a top choice by United’s leadership, given his unparalleled success with Real Madrid, where he won three consecutive Champions League titles. His proven ability to manage high-profile players and his calm leadership style are qualities that appeal to many United fans and insiders.
However, Zidane has previously expressed concerns about managing in England, particularly due to language barriers. Nevertheless, in a 2022 interview, he hinted that he might consider a Premier League role, saying, “never say never,” which has kept fans optimistic about the possibility.
Notably, influential figures at United, such as Sir Jim Ratcliffe, reportedly view Zidane as a strong candidate should a managerial change be needed. For now, Ten Hag has time to improve United’s performance, but Zidane’s availability casts a long shadow.
Should United’s form continue to struggle, the pressure to bring in a seasoned, tactically astute manager like Zidane may become too great to ignore.
As United moves deeper into the season, the scrutiny on Ten Hag’s tactical adjustments and the team’s overall progress will only intensify. Zidane’s reputation, along with his experience working with top players, keeps him in the conversation as a potential successor.
Although no official steps have been taken, United fans remain hopeful that Zidane might eventually arrive to lead the club. Whether Ten Hag can turn things around remains to be seen, but Zidane’s name is likely to persist as long as United’s results leave fans wanting more.
