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SPORTING have confirmed that Manchester United will pay Ruben Amorim’s £8.3m release clause to replace Erik ten Hag as the club’s manager.It comes after former manager Ten Hag was sacked on Monday morning following the Red Devils’ poor start to the 2024/25 Premier League season.NEXT MAN UTD MANAGER LATEST ODDSFollow our live blog below…Amor of the same Ruben Amorim already has experience of getting the better of some of the Premier League’s top managers.The Sporting Lisbon boss appears to be in pole position to replace Erik ten Hag in the Old Trafford hot-seat, after the Dutchman was sacked on Monday.Amorim may have never managed in the Premier League, but his tactics have already come up trumps against some of the division’s best managers.Most notably, his Sporting side saw off Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal in the Europa League last 16 in 2023.Sporting knocked the Gunners out of Europe with some intelligent tactics that pushed Arteta’s side to the limit and ultimately knocked them out on penalties.Amorim’s side managed a draw in both fixtures, a 2-2 game at home and a 1-1 effort at the Emirates.Copy linkCopied’Here we go’ Man Utd are set to pay Ruben Amorim’s €10m (£8.3m) Sporting Lisbon exit clause. According to Fabrizio Romano, Sporting confirmed formal communications with Amorim to be appointed United manager. The manager is already on board to take over at Old Trafford. Copy linkCopiedMor changeRuben Amorim could ring the changes at Manchester United if he is hired for the top job.Amorim has favoured a 3-4-3 formation while at Sporting Lisbon which could suit the club’s defensive options.And here is how SunSport reckons United could line up under Amorim.Copy linkCopiedMour to learnRuben Amorim had an internship at Man Utd under Jose Mourinho in 2018.He has previously cited the Special One as his “reference point” in coaching.He has played down any comparisons between the pair, saying of his idol: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”Copy linkCopiedMore from Pep He said on Ten Hag: “I wish him all the best, he and his family, and of course he’s going to come back stronger. “He knows, I know, everybody knows: our job depends on the results. The results are not good enough.“I’m saying that, and even myself, I’m not an exception. If the results are not good, there isn’t anything that can sustain it… “Our job, unfortunately, is as simple as that: you have to get results.“If you are [there] because you are handsome, or because you [speak well], or have good relationships with the hierarchies, forget about it. “I have an incredible relationship with my hierarchy, but if I didn’t get results, I wouldn’t be here. This is a business, and when you become a manager, you have to know it.”Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedPep talkPep Guardiola has spoken out following Erik ten Hag’s sacking.He said: “Always I feel sorry for managers, you know? He’s lost his position, so I’m so sorry for him. “I have a good, I think incredible relationship [with him]. I think he represented Manchester United at the highest level in terms of behaviours, of course.“Our job as managers is one of the few jobs – in all the jobs in the world – where people are expecting to be sacked. People are expecting you don’t have a job.“I don’t see architects or doctors or teachers or anything… The people deciding [their futures don’t say]: ‘Get out.’ It’s only us. It’s our job, we have to accept it.”Copy linkCopiedAm your manRuben Amorim’s potential move to Old Trafford could pave the way for a top striker to join United.Once settled in to his job, the 39-year-old could attempt to lure Sporting forward Viktor Gyokeres to Manchester.The Sweden international has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League in recent months.Arsenal, Manchester City and Chelsea have all expressed an interest in signing the former Coventry star.But Amorim’s presence could attract him to Old Trafford instead.Copy linkCopiedFamily tiesRuben Amorim’s brother in law Antero was famously the former Sporting Director at PSG – and was a Man Utd target – before the Red Devils switched their attention to Dan Ashworth.He was responsible for the most expensive transfer ever – bringing Neymar to the Ligue 1 giants in a record-breaking £198million from Barcelona.Antero also managed to convince Kylian Mbappe to snub Real Madrid, when he moved from Monaco.While Dani Alves, who was fielding several offers from Premier League clubs, was persuaded that his future belonged in the French capital in 2017.Before his tenure at PSG, Antero modernised Porto’s academy and introduced handball and basketball to the organisation.Copy linkCopiedCareer in numbersHere is Ruben Amorim’s career stats as both a player and manager.Copy linkCopiedLess is AmorMan Utd will get Ruben Amorim out of his Sporting Lisbon contract for £16.5million less than other clubs would have to pay thanks to a shock clause, according to reports.The 39-year-old has reportedly verbally agreed to join Man Utd and is already deep in talks.Amorim’s deal at Sporting expires in 2026 – yet reports state he was planning to quit at the end of this season.Newspaper A Bola claims he has three different release clauses in his contract.Another Portuguese club would have to pay £25m for his services – while that figure drops to £17m for sides outside his homeland.But there is also supposedly a “sharks” agreement that makes it easier for Europe’s elite to afford him.The clause allows clubs like Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Juventus, Liverpool, Manchester City and United to activate Amorim’s release for just £8.5m.That means Sir Jim Ratcliffe is getting his man for £16.5m less than the other clubs like Porto or Benfica have to pay.Copy linkCopiedWhat a Hag-gle Erik ten Hag’s final glory at Manchester United might have not happened if he had persisted with his originally planned tactics in the FA Cup final.Ten Hag, 54, was kept in the position by new bosses Ineos over the summer after winning the FA Cup final against Manchester City, courtesy of goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.However, the result of that game could have turned out very different.That is because, according to The Independent, Ten Hag’s original plan was to go “toe-to-toe” against the league champions.And only after hours of debate led by then-technical director Darren Fletcher – who has since become one of Ten Hag’s coaching staff after Jason Wilcox joined – Ten Hag relented.The tactical tweaks he made prior to the game worked as a treat, as the 4-4-2 shape helped United defend against Pep Guardiola’s side and gave United the ability to be dangerous on the counter.Reports at the time suggested that Ten Hag had also listened to the advice of Wilcox to use Bruno Fernandes as a False 9 for the final, which yielded the captain an assist for the winner.Copy linkCopiedBest of alive Ruben Amorim looks set to be the manager appointed as the new boss of Manchester United following the sacking of Erik ten Hag.The Sporting CP head coach will inherit a squad that sits 14th in the Premier League and 21st in the Europa League table.However, that is not to say he will come into a total mess at Old Trafford, with a talented squad with a number of bright young talents set to be at his disposal.The summer’s transfers under new bosses Ineos also appear to fit like a glove for Amorim’s style of play.The addition of a new defensive midfielder in Manuel Ugarte and two centre-backs in Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro have bolstered particularly weak areas of the squad from last season.But problems have persisted over the summer, and Amorim, 39, will need to have a checklist of items on his agenda if he takes up the Red Devils mantle – as his idol Jose Mourinho once did.Copy linkCopiedAmorim €100m man Viktor Gyokeres enjoyed a prolific campaign with Sporting Lisbon last season, scoring 43 goals in 50 appearances.The 26-year-old has carried that impressive form over to this term with 14 goals in the same number of outings.And, just last month, Amorim insisted Gyokeres is worth at least £83MILLION.He said: “Viktor is a great player, and I believe he is worth €100 million.”Particularly, Sporting, along with president Frederico Varandas and sporting director Hugo Viana, believes he is worth that amount.”Therefore, that is the price; anyone wanting to sign him will have to pay €100 million.”Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedNumbers don’t lie Here is how Erik ten Hag’s reign at Man Utd went downhill following 7-0 defeat to Liverpool. Copy linkCopiedSeven and hell Erik ten Hag’s downfall at Manchester United may have started NINETEEN MONTHS ago.Although Sunday’s Hammer blow may have been the result that burst Ten Hag’s bubble, it was a game over a year ago that started his descent into unemployment.New stats from Opta show that United’s 7-0 humiliation at the hands of Liverpool in March 2023 was the turning point in Ten Hag’s tenure.Not only was that result the moment that much of the Man Utd faithful lost faith in the gaffer, but it’s also when the wheels began to come off.Prior to the defeat at Anfield, Ten Hag’s United had boasted a 73 PER CENT win rate, losing just six games over the course of the manager’s first 41 matches in all competitions.Copy linkCopiedBreaking silence This is what Ruben Amorim said when probed on his links to replacing Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford. He said: “I was already expecting this question and obviously I’m not going to talk about the future, because otherwise I’ll always have to comment.”I’m very proud to be Sporting coach, that’s all.”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFamily ties Ruben Amorim’s brother in law Antero was famously the former Sporting Director at PSG – and was a Man Utd target – before the Red Devils switched their attention to Dan Ashworth.He was responsible for the most expensive transfer ever – bringing Neymar to the Ligue 1 giants in a record-breaking £198million from Barcelona.Antero also managed to convince Kylian Mbappe to snub Real Madrid, when he moved from Monaco.While Dani Alves, who was fielding several offers from Premier League clubs, was persuaded that his future belonged in the French capital in 2017.Before his tenure at PSG, Antero modernised Porto’s academy and introduced handball and basketball to the organisation.Copy linkCopiedAlternate XI Here is another way Man Utd could line up under Ruben Amorim. Copy linkCopiedMor change Ruben Amorim could ring the changes at Manchester United if he is hired for the top job.Amorim has favoured a 3-4-3 formation while at Sporting Lisbon which could suit the club’s defensive options.And here is how SunSport reckons United could line up under Amorim.Copy linkCopiedDevils in disguise It will take years to unpick this mess, years. Try maybe five at best.If anyone thinks Ruben Amorim or any other new manager at Old Trafford is going to turn water into wine, or rather champagne, then forget it.It is a mess of Manchester United’s own making. Or that of part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.Mind you, he has washed his hands of such problems, claiming it is in fact the new ‘management team’ or whatever they are called, who take these decisions.The Glazers have washed their hands of it, too, despite still counting the dollars.Omar Berrada, Jason Wilcox and Dan Ashworth all claim to have arrived too late to be involved in the decisions at the end of last season. See how the buck is getting passed.Copy linkCopiedMarried man Ruben Amorim is a father of two and is married to Maria João Diogo, who have one son together.Maria has built her own business in interior design with an academic degree in telecommunications engineering.The couple got married in 2013 in front of 160 guests at a beautiful ceremony at the Palácio de S. Marcos church in Coimbra.Players like Nuno Gomes, Miguel Vítor, Hugo Viana, Luís Filipe and Quim were all present. As was Maria’s brother, Antero Henrique.Copy linkCopiedErik ten Swag Erik ten Hag boards a private jet to the Netherlands after being axed as Manchester United manager yesterday with an expected £15million golden goodbye.The Dutchman, 54, got his marching orders at 11am.He was seen smiling at 2.15pm before a Cessna light aircraft flew him home from Manchester to Amsterdam.Less than two hours after the announcement — at 1.30pm — sheepish Ten Hag was seen crouching down in the back of a black ­chauffeur-driven Mercedes S Class.The 54-year-old Dutchman was whisked from his Cheshire home to Manchester Airport — where he was pictured in the gilet and with a rucksack — before his private jet left for Amsterdam at 2.15pm.He is in line for a £15million payoff after a turbulent 2½-year spell and is the fifth manager sacked since Sir Alex Ferguson stepped down after 27 years in 2013.Copy linkCopiedDave Kidd Sir Jim Ratcliffe has assembled one hell of a brains trust at Manchester United.And it seems, by closing in on Ruben Amorim, that they have started to get brainy.They have started taking intelligent decisions.They are making Manchester United sensible again.The Red Devils have fallen so far behind Liverpool and Manchester City in recent years that they have been little more than a speck in the rear view mirror of either of their North-West rivals.Yet the Kop giants and City have both been strongly linked with Sporting boss Amorim, the hottest young property in European coaching, and it is United who are on the brink of landing him.Copy linkCopiedTop of the flops Erik ten Hag has been sacked with Manchester United 14th in the Premier League and £300MILLION out of pocket.Ten Hag leaves with an FA Cup and Carabao Cup to his name but in the league and Europe results were underwhelming.And so too was his transfer business.In his two seasons, Ten Hag signed 21 players costing over £545m.Copy linkCopiedMour to learn Ruben Amorim had an internship at Man Utd under Jose Mourinho in 2018. He has previously cited the Special One as his “reference point” in coaching.He has played down any comparisons between the pair, saying of his idol: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”Copy linkCopied More

MANCHESTER UNITED are working on a deal to appoint Sporting boss Ruben Amorim as the club’s new head coach.It comes after former manager Erik ten Hag was sacked on Monday morning following the Red Devils’ poor start to the 2024/25 Premier League season.Amorim is said to be open to accepting the move to Old Trafford, with Man Utd ready to pay Sporting his €10m release clause.NEXT MAN UTD MANAGER LATEST ODDSFollow our live blog below…Contract talks with AmorimSporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim remains Manchester United’s top target.And according to Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg, the most important contract details between Amorim and United have already been agreed upon.Only a few details remain and therefore a “complete agreement” is not unlikely.Copy linkCopiedMarco Silva ‘approached’Fulham boss Marco Silva is also considered by Manchester United after Erik ten Hag’s departure.According to Guillem Balague, Silva has been “approached” by United.The Portuguese tactician was also linked last summer when Ten Hag’s position was being reconsidered by the Red Devils’ chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe.However, the Dutchman remained in charge and Silva stayed at Craven Cottage.Credit: RexCopy linkCopiedRuben Amorim twist?Manchester United may not be signing Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim just yet.According to Guillem Balague, Amorim might decide to wait for Manchester City if Pep Guardiola leaves. That could lead to a reunion with City’s new sporting director Hugo Viana.United, though, are still pushing for a deal as they want the Portuguese tactician to replace Erik ten Hag at the helm.Copy linkCopiedChange of heart?Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim was reportedly reluctant to leave before the summer.Initial reports suggested Amorim was focused on the task at hand.However, the Portuguese tactician now appears keen to replace Erik ten Hag at the helm.That alone shows that the Red Devils have immense pulling power even during intense struggle.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd ‘hope’ for dealThe transfer rumour mill is in full swing after Erik ten Hag’s departure from Manchester United.United are pushing hard for a deal to sign Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim as Ten Hag’s successor.According to The Athletic, there is hope an agreement can be concluded fairly swiftly.Reports suggest the Portuguese tactician is open to move and it all now depends on Sporting.Copy linkCopiedAmorim ‘very open’ to joinSporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim is “very open” to joining Manchester United with immediate effect.That is according to Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg, who claims talks between United and Sporting are ongoing.And it now largely depends on the Lisbon giants to make that deal possible.Originally, the Portuguese tactician intended to move next summer.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopied’Verbal agreement’ with AmorimSporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim has “verbally agreed” to become Manchester United boss.That is according to transfer insider Ben Jacobs, who claims Amorim has already said yes to United – as per his sources in Portugal.The Red Devils and Sporting now working on a compensation agreement for the Portuguesen tactician.The 39-year-old head coach has a €10million (£8.3m) release clause.Copy linkCopiedRatcliffe targets AmorimSir Jim Ratcliffe has assembled one hell of a brains trust at Manchester United.And it seems, by closing in on Ruben Amorim, that they have started to get brainy. Started taking intelligent decisions. That they are making Manchester United sensible again.United have fallen so far behind Liverpool and Manchester City in recent years that they have been little more than a speck in the rearview mirror of either of their North-West rivals.Yet Liverpool and City have both been strongly linked with Sporting Lisbon boss Amorim, the hottest young property in European coaching, and it is United who are on the brink of landing him.Amorim was favourite for the Liverpool job when Jurgen Klopp announced his decision to quit early this year and he has been favourite to succeed Pep Guardiola at City since his Sporting colleague Hugo Viana agreed to take over as director of football at the Etihad.So this is a coup for the crew Ratcliffe has put together to run United’s footballing operation – having poached Dan Ashworth from Newcastle as sporting director, Omar Berrada from Manchester City as chief executive and Jason Wilcox from Southampton as technical director.Copy linkCopiedAmorim contract talks Manchester United are really pushing for Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim.According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, United have held contract talks with Amorim’s camp.Copy linkCopiedSporting dominate under AmorimSporting Lisbon have been enjoying a stunning start in the Primeira Liga under manager Ruben Amorim.Amorim is reportedly United’s top target to replace Erik ten Hag at the helm.The Red Devils are said to even have held talks with Sporting for the Portuguese tactician who appears keen.The Lisbon giants have won all nine league games this season under the 39-year-old head coach with a goal difference of +28Copy linkCopiedResults this seasonThey simply haven’t been good enough this season.Man Utd 1-0 Fulham – WBrighton 2-1 Man Utd – LMan Utd 0-3 Liverpool – LSouthampton 0-3 Man Utd – WMan Utd 7-0 Barnsley – WPalace 0-0 Man Utd – DMan Utd 1-1 Twente – DMan Utd 0-3 Tottenham – LMan Utd 3-3 Porto – DVilla 0-0 Man Utd – DMan Utd 2-1 Brentford – WFenerbahce 1-1 Man Utd – DWest Ham 2-1 Man Utd – LCopy linkCopiedRuud awakeningRuud van Nistelrooy will take charge as Manchester United manager on an interim basis.Van Nistelrooy only came in as Erik ten Hag’s assistant at the beginning of this season.And already the club finds himself in one of the biggest jobs in football.Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedMan Utd statementManchester United issued the following statement after Erik ten Hag’s dismissal.Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men’s first-team manager.Erik was appointed in April 2022 and led the club to two domestic trophies, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024.We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team as interim head coach, supported by the current coaching team, whilst a permanent head coach is recruited.Man UtdCopy linkCopiedTen Hag sackingManchester United have decided to part ways with manager Erik ten Hag after a dismal start to the 2024/25 Premier League campaign.United sacked Ten Hag on Monday following a 2-1 defeat to West Ham on the weekend.The Premier League giants failed to find any consistency under the Dutchman, with speculation around his future starting at the backend of last season.Man Utd have put Ruud van Nistelrooy in charge on an interim basis as the club begin their search for their seventh manager since Sir Alex Ferguson left the club.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd move for AmorimManchester United are making a strong move for Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim.According to The Athletic, United are actively working on a deal to appoint Amorim.The Red Devils are ready to pay the Portuguese tactician’s €10million (£8.3m) release clause.The Manchester giants are in talks with Sporting and the 39-year-old head coach is open to accepting a move to Old Trafford.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopied More

MANCHESTER UNITED have decided to part ways with manager Erik ten Hag after a dismal start to the 2024/25 Premier League campaign.The Red Devils sacked Ten Hag on Monday following a 2-1 defeat to West Ham on the weekend. The Premier League giants failed to find any consistency under the Dutchman, with speculation around his future starting at the backend of last season.Man Utd have put Ruud van Nistelrooy in charge on an interim basis as the club begin their search for their seventh manager since Sir Alex Fergurson left the club.The Red Devils are in talks with Sporting manager Ruben Amorim to become the club’s new manager, with United ready to pay his €10m release clause.NEXT MAN UTD MANAGER LATEST ODDSFollow our live blog below…We have moved!Keep up to date with the very latest from Old Trafford with our live blog.Copy linkCopiedHowe about Eddie?But how about Eddie Howe, whose Newcastle release clause is less than Dan Ashworth’s; who has an excellent record of over-achievement in the Premier League; who preaches an entertaining style of football and has been unsettled by behind-the-scenes changes at St James’ Park.If leaving the club with the richest owners in world football to go to Old Trafford is a step down, then why did Ashworth do it?It is reckoned that Howe might fancy the switch and you can be sure that Ashworth, still a close ally, will have asked the question.Sir Jim Ratcliffe is a cost-cutter who, having just shelled out £15million to sack Erik ten Hag, would rather not pay another large compo fee – but he will also understand that this appointment must be the right one, irrespective of cost.Whoever does succeed Ten Hag will inherit an omnishambles. He will need to be utterly clear in his vision and ruthless in his approach.Ashworth and the rest of Sir Jim’s Rat Pack simply have to get this one right.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd move for AmorimManchester United are making a strong move for Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim.According to The Athletic, United are actively working on a deal to appoint Amorim.The Red Devils are ready to pay the Portuguese tactician’s €10million (£8.3m) release clause.The Manchester giants are in talks with Sporting and the 39-year-old head coach is open to accepting a move to Old Trafford.Copy linkCopiedWho else?Thomas Frank is the bandwagon candidate and was sounded out by Manchester United earlier this year. His Brentford side play a very direct brand of football but the Dane is tactically flexible.Last week Frank spoke of not relishing the intense spotlight that comes with the biggest jobs – without ruling himself out of making such a move. And wouldn’t it be sadly typical of United to appoint the only manager whose team has lost to them in the last eight games? After those front-runners, it is instructive to look at Dan Ashworth’s previous.Gareth Southgate says he is taking a year out, during which he will literally be knighted for the job he’s just done with England but still won’t be fancied by supporters of any major club. Because, I don’t know, handbrakes or something.Sir Dave Brailsford offered Graham Potter the job at Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s other club, Nice, but he has been out of work since failing in his only elite managerial role at Chelsea. Unai Emery surely isn’t crazy enough to leave Aston Villa for United.Copy linkCopiedMore candidatesThen there’s Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim, who distanced himself from the Liverpool vacancy earlier this year and whose mate, Hugo Viana, is Manchester City’s incoming director of football, making him favourite to succeed Pep Guardiola at the Etihad.Amorim would be a well-received appointment. But is he already spoken for?Ruud Van Nistelrooy, the caretaker manager, is the bookies’ favourite because he’s in the building and he’s Dutch.But the “give it to Ole [Gunnar Solskjaer] to the end of the season” and “give it to Ralf [Rangnick] to the end of the season” thing hasn’t worked well in the past. It brings a sense of impermanence and drift.Ratcliffe isn’t a sentimentalist. And anyway Van Nistelrooy doesn’t hold Solskjaer’s nostalgia value.As for others with United links, it is surely too early for Ipswich’s Kieran McKenna or Middlesbrough’s Michael Carrick.Copy linkCopiedXavi next?Who is the best man for the job? Pep Guardiola. Can we get him? No. Has Pep got any mates? Yes.Some of Pep’s mates are doing pretty well – Mikel Arteta at Arsenal, Enzo Maresca at Chelsea – and so Sir Jim Ratcliffe will surely have asked his chief executive, Pep’s former mate Omar Berrada, whether Pep has any other mates.Hence the one-time Barcelona playmaker and manager Xavi becoming a major contender.But Xavi couldn’t hack the pressure of managing Barca. And that sort of ‘kid on a FIFA computer game’ mindset isn’t Ashworth’s way.It’s the sort of thinking which saw United re-sign Cristiano Ronaldo at the end of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s reign, stink-bombing the dressing room in time for Erik ten Hag’s arrival.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedOver to Sir JimSir Jim Ratcliffe has assembled one hell of a brains trust at Manchester United. So now is the time for them to start getting brainy. To start taking intelligent decisions. To make Manchester United sensible again.The Ineos chief, who took over United’s footballing arm ten months ago, has poached Dan Ashworth from Newcastle as sporting director, Omar Berrada from Manchester City as chief executive and Jason Wilcox from Southampton as technical director.These men sit alongside Ratcliffe’s chum, Sir Dave Brailsford, the former British cycling chief and marginal gains man, as the Old Trafford decision-makers.In the summer, when Ratcliffe made the expensive mistake of handing Ten Hag a new contract after the FA Cup Final victory over Manchester City, his cabinet hadn’t been fully constructed.But now that the delusional Erik ten Hag is gone – ranting on about media ‘fairytales’ over his imminent sacking and denying results that he didn’t like – it’s time for them to take a shot at sanity.Ten Hag will justify himself with boasts about two domestic knock-out trophies. Yet he assembled a former Dutch Eredivisie All Star XI to lead United to 14th place in the Premier League and 21st in the Europa League.The £85million fee paid to his former club Ajax for Antony is a towering monument to an era of staggering incompetence. So now it is time to find out whether United will bend to the will of Ratcliffe – a self-made, hard-hootered, multi-billionaire businessman.Or whether Ratcliffe will descend into the United rabbit hole and end up as mad as everyone else employed there since Sir Alex Ferguson resigned in 2013.Copy linkCopiedTen Hag’s last presserErik ten Hag gave a press conference to preview Manchester United’s Carabao Cup tie with Leicester on Wednesday – even though he was sacked today.The Dutchman spoke to the media directly after his press conference following Sunday’s controversial 2-1 loss away to West Ham.Yet bizarrely, Ten Hag found himself axed more than TWO DAYS before the Leicester game.Unfortunately, club staging press conferences directly after games – to preview a match a few days later – is something which has crept into the game.It is actually a bad idea. And it is only to save club media staff and the manager from staging a press conference the day before the game, which has always been the case.But if a manager attempts to preview a game three days later, there is always a danger that the situation could change such as a key player getting injured or something important happening at the club in general.Yet this situation was particularly unusual – and the manager who delivered a pre-match press conference ended up getting the boot.At the conference, which was due to be released at 1.30pm tomorrow, Ten Hag revealed his frustration with Luke Shaw’s injury nightmare.Ten Hag also stressed that he would consider it a success if he won the Carabao Cup for United, meaning he would have won a trophy for a third season in a row.He stressed that the most important thing was to win silverware, above anything else – and pointed out the fact that United still had the chance of winning four trophies – even though he has been sacked with United 14th in the table.Copy linkCopiedInside Erik ten Hag’s sacking as reasons Man Utd finally pulled the trigger revealedErik ten Hag has finally been sacked by Manchester United – and SunSport can reveal the reasons why.The Dutch boss, 54, was axed just hours after the Red Devils’ 2-1 defeat at West Ham as the club released a blunt 87-word statement.The result leaves Man Utd 14th in the Premier League – with the club also winless in all three of their Europa League matches.Ten Hag was under serious pressure in the summer after guiding United to a record-worst eighth placed finish.But ultimately the ex-Ajax boss escaped the axe and was handed an improved contract on the back of his side’s FA Cup win.However, SunSport can now reveal why United chiefs performed a U-turn just nine games into the Premier League season.While Red Devils chiefs found the decision difficult, they were unanimous in their decision to move on from Ten Hag.The United boardroom were keen to give the Dutchman a chance to work under the new structure put in place by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.United bosses were keen to keep Ten Hag in a bid to find continuity in their leadership for the first time since Sir Alex Ferguson retired at the end of the 2012-13 season.However, they were left disappointed by both the results AND the performances on the pitch and feared the lack of momentum could only cause United to fall further.Chiefs felt there were no excuses for the shoddy form and poor results both in the Premier League and Europa League – especially the manner in which the side have dropped points from winning positions.Having put things in place to watch the team develop, the shocking start to 2024-25 left them with no option but to sack Ten Hag.Copy linkCopiedFrank speaks about Man Utd vacancySpeaking to the media ahead of Brentford’s Carabao Cup clash with Sheffield Wednesday, Frank said: “Of course, I feel for Erik. He is a great coach and has a great career. He did a good job at Man United, two trophies in two years.”It’s a non-stop developing world and that is more than acceptable. At these big clubs, there are massive expectations but there has to be a reality check… You feel for guys who lose their jobs and I’m sure Erik gave everything.”There are better people to judge that (improvement). He had a very good first season and had more than a few injury problems.”When asked if he wanted the Man Utd job, Frank said: “I’ve got a big responsibility to Brentford Football Club, the fans, the leadership, players and staff. One focus, to beat Sheffield Wednesday in the Carabao Cup.”I’m very happy here, one of the best clubs in the world. What happens in the future who knows, but I am very happy here.”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedLineker suggests ‘brilliant’ left-field coach Man Utd ‘probably won’t think about’ to replace Ten HagGary Lineker has thrown an unexpected name into the hat to replace Erik ten Hag.The Dutchman was sacked as Manchester United manager on Monday following weeks of speculation.Match of the Day host Lineker joined Micah Richards and Alan Shearer to discuss United’s next steps on their podcast The Rest Is Football.The panel speculated on who would come in to take over from Ten Hag long term.And Lineker put forward Lee Carsley, England’s current interim coach, as a surprise candidate.Lineker said: “I’m going to throw in a name here. I think it would be very interesting, he’s certainly a brilliant coach.”A certain Lee Carsley – who they probably won’t think about.”He’s a really imaginative coach, he plays attacking football.”From what I heard from England players, they thought he was really good. Really interesting and thoughtful on the game.”Copy linkCopiedZidane the fan favourite to replace Ten Hag as Manchester United managerA survey conducted by BetMGM, which polled 1,000 Manchester United supporters — found that over a quarter of fans (26%) would like to see the Frenchman take over at Old Trafford ahead of Ten Hag’s former assistant and current interim manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy, at 20%.Gareth Southgate was also fancied by 20% of voters, while new England manager Thomas Tuchel was liked by 15%. Former United player and current Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick attracted 14% of votes — the same percentage as ex-Red Devils manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Eddie Howe.Interestingly, Ruben Amorim, Xavi Hernandez and Julian Nagelsmann – all fancied in the betting to replace Ten Hag – were not picked by any fans.Copy linkCopiedMicah Richards reacts to Ten Hag sacking and next managerSpeaking on the Rest is Football podcast, Richards said: “You have to give them time. “They have got some good people in the backroom staff. I think all the noises coming out of Man United are not good, leaks to the press and all of that sort of thing.”They had the meeting the other week with Ten Hag. It looked like he was going to be sacked, it didn’t happen and then it happens today. I think they have the right pieces in play.”Copy linkCopiedMan Utd chief tasked with choosing Ten Hag replacement has incredible hit-rateManchester United chief Dan Ashworth has the tough job of picking the club’s new manager after Erik ten Hag was sacked.Ashworth is set to lead the search and he boasts an impressive CV when it comes to appointing the right managers for the right teams.The 53-year-old previously worked for the FA and played a huge role in giving Gareth Southgate the England job in 2016.He revolutionised the team and guided the Three Lions to two Euros finals that ended in heartbreak.Ashworth then worked at Brighton, where he appointed Graham Potter as boss.He implemented an attractive style of play and took them from near the bottom of the league to European contenders.Ashworth then moved to Newcastle and he gave Eddie Howe the job, who led the Toon into the Champions League for the first time in two decades.Interestingly, Unai Emery was supposedly his first-choice at St James’ Park, but the Spaniard instead went on to oversee Aston Villa’s remarkable rise from relegation candidates to matching Europe’s elite.Copy linkCopiedTen Hag’s worst XI of Man Utd signings cost £300MILLIONErik ten Hag has been sacked with Manchester United 14th in the Premier League and £300MILLION out of pocket.The Dutchman was shown the exit door following 2-1 defeat at West Ham with club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy to take charge in the interim.Ten Hag leaves with an FA Cup and Carabao Cup to his name but in the league and Europe results were underwhelming.And so too was his transfer business.In his two seasons, Ten Hag signed 21 players costing over £545m.Copy linkCopiedBREAKING: Ten Hag seen for first time since Man Utd sackingThe Dutchman has been spotted for the first time since his dramatic Manchester United axing.Ten Hag was dismissed as Red Devils manager on Monday morning.Ten Hag was seen getting into the back of his car as he left his Cheshire home.The 54-year-old bowed his head as he prepared to travel back to the Netherlands.Man Utd released a blunt 87-word statement as the 54-year-old was relieved of his duties.It read: “Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men’s first-team manager.”Erik was appointed in April 2022 and led the club to two domestic trophies, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024.”We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.”Credit: ZenpixCopy linkCopiedHojlund reactsRasmus Hojlund has taken to Instagram to react to the sacking of Erik ten Hag.The forward was signed by the Dutchman in 2023, joining from Atalanta for an initial fee of £64million.Copy linkCopiedDamning numbersHere are Man Utd’s defensive numbers compared to other Premier League clubs under Ten Hag:Copy linkCopiedOle ‘under consideration’ for bombshell Man Utd returnFormer Man Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is being linked with a stunning Old Trafford return.The Red Devils are searching for a new manager after sacking Erik ten Hag on Monday.Ten Hag leaves the club with United languishing in 14th place in the Premier League.He was given his marching orders following a dismal run of just 4 wins in 14 games across all competitions.Ex-United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy has been put in temporary charge and is currently favourite to take over full-time.But it’s reportedly another blast from the past who may be back in the dugout long-term.Solskjaer – who has been a free agent since United dismissed him in November 2021 – could benefit from the awkward timing of the dismissal.Ten Hag is due a whopping £17million in compensation with United having to buy him out of his huge contract.Cost-cutting is already underway at Old Trafford and club bosses are reportedly scouring cheaper options.According to the Manchester Evening News, free agent Solskjaer is therefore “under consideration for a return.”The report adds it is unclear if he is viewed as a” serious long-term option as manager or a backroom staff member.”Copy linkCopiedHow much Man Utd will have to pay Ten Hag after sackingIt has been revealed how much Manchester United will have to pay up after sacking Erik ten Hag.According to reports, the Red Devils will have to pay up to £15million to the Dutchman.The former Ajax manager was reportedly earning £6.75m-per year with a contract until the summer of 2026.Ten Hag signed a contract extension at the start of July after winning the FA Cup with United.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedBiggest net spend since Ten Hag joined Man UtdHere is a list of the highest-spending Premier League clubs since Erik ten Hag was appointed Man Utd manager in 2022.Chelsea – £715mMan Utd – £400mTottenham – £310.5mArsenal – £285mNewcastle – £235mCredit: GETTYCopy linkCopiedFerdinand reacts to Ten Hag sackingFormer Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand, spoke on his YouTube reacting to the breaking news regarding Ten Hag, he said: “I look at Ineos and I think about the way things panned out at the end of the season.”Did they back themselves into a corner, with the way that they handled stuff in the summer?”They’ll look back and go ‘we could have handled it better’. I think having a manager in place and actively looking for new managers and it becoming public knowledge, isn’t a great way to do it.”It isn’t a great way to advertise for the job. It’s hard for the guy coming in, to come in under that cloud.”It’s also even harder for the guy whose in the hot seat, still the manager and then they keep him as the manager and he has to face questions constantly about his standing within the organisation.”It’s not easy to navigate through a situation that is so public, a club the size of Manchester United but if they’re honest, Ineos – they could have done that in a better way.”Copy linkCopiedWhat did Ten Hag win during his time as Man Utd manager?The Dutchman was in charge of the Red Devils for two-and-a-half years.Ten Hag enjoyed a successful first season as United boss with a third-placed finish in the Premier League and his side won the EFL Cup – the club’s first major honour in six years.However, the Dutchman failed to build on the success of his opening season after a disappointed eighth-placed finish, United’s lowest in Prem history.United were also knocked out in the group stage of the Champions League.That said, the Red Devils did end the season on a high by winning the FA Cup, beating rivals Man City 2-1 at Wembley.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopied’Thanks for everything boss!’Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has had his say following Ten Hag’s sacking.He posted on Instagram: “Thanks for everything boss! I appreciate the trust and the moments we share together, I wish you all the best in the future.”Even knowing the last period isn’t been great from all of us I hope you fans can keep with you the good things the manager as done for our club!”Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedNeville on Ten Hag’s sackingGary Neville has had his say on Ten Hag’s sacking as Man Utd boss. “The big shock for me is just how bad they’ve been, with the new signings that have come in,” he told Sky Sports News. “I felt as though they would be able to get a decent level of performance together. The fact it was a smooth transfer window, the fact with Erik Ten Hag, there’s some stability.”But the fact they’re in 14th is unnacceptable. You can’t be in 14th after nearly nine or 10 games with the level of spend that’s occured.”I was hoping it would end differently, I think United fans were hoping that the manager could keep his job, but it’s just not been the case.”Copy linkCopied More

MANCHESTER UNITED have decided to part ways with manager Erik ten Hag after a dismal start to the 2024/25 Premier League campaign.The Red Devils sacked Ten Hag on Monday following a 2-1 defeat to West Ham on the weekend. The Premier League giants failed to find any consistency under the Dutchman, with speculation around his future starting at the backend of last season.Man Utd have put Ruud van Nistelrooy in charge on an interim basis as the club begin their search for their seventh manager since Sir Alex Fergurson left the club.Names linked to the post include Gareth Southgate, Ruben Amorim and Graham Potter.NEXT MAN UTD MANAGER LATEST ODDSFollow our live blog below…Inside Erik ten Hag’s sacking as reasons Man Utd finally pulled the trigger revealedErik ten Hag has finally been sacked by Manchester United – and SunSport can reveal the reasons why.The Dutch boss, 54, was axed just hours after the Red Devils’ 2-1 defeat at West Ham as the club released a blunt 87-word statement.The result leaves Man Utd 14th in the Premier League – with the club also winless in all three of their Europa League matches.Ten Hag was under serious pressure in the summer after guiding United to a record-worst eighth placed finish.But ultimately the ex-Ajax boss escaped the axe and was handed an improved contract on the back of his side’s FA Cup win.However, SunSport can now reveal why United chiefs performed a U-turn just nine games into the Premier League season.While Red Devils chiefs found the decision difficult, they were unanimous in their decision to move on from Ten Hag.The United boardroom were keen to give the Dutchman a chance to work under the new structure put in place by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.United bosses were keen to keep Ten Hag in a bid to find continuity in their leadership for the first time since Sir Alex Ferguson retired at the end of the 2012-13 season.However, they were left disappointed by both the results AND the performances on the pitch and feared the lack of momentum could only cause United to fall further.Chiefs felt there were no excuses for the shoddy form and poor results both in the Premier League and Europa League – especially the manner in which the side have dropped points from winning positions.Having put things in place to watch the team develop, the shocking start to 2024-25 left them with no option but to sack Ten Hag.Copy linkCopiedFrank speaks about Man Utd vacancySpeaking to the media ahead of Brentford’s Carabao Cup clash with Sheffield Wednesday, Frank said: “Of course, I feel for Erik. He is a great coach and has a great career. He did a good job at Man United, two trophies in two years.”It’s a non-stop developing world and that is more than acceptable. At these big clubs, there are massive expectations but there has to be a reality check… You feel for guys who lose their jobs and I’m sure Erik gave everything.”There are better people to judge that (improvement). He had a very good first season and had more than a few injury problems.”When asked if he wanted the Man Utd job, Frank said: “I’ve got a big responsibility to Brentford Football Club, the fans, the leadership, players and staff. One focus, to beat Sheffield Wednesday in the Carabao Cup.”I’m very happy here, one of the best clubs in the world. What happens in the future who knows, but I am very happy here.”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedLineker suggests ‘brilliant’ left-field coach Man Utd ‘probably won’t think about’ to replace Ten HagGary Lineker has thrown an unexpected name into the hat to replace Erik ten Hag.The Dutchman was sacked as Manchester United manager on Monday following weeks of speculation.Match of the Day host Lineker joined Micah Richards and Alan Shearer to discuss United’s next steps on their podcast The Rest Is Football.The panel speculated on who would come in to take over from Ten Hag long term.And Lineker put forward Lee Carsley, England’s current interim coach, as a surprise candidate.Lineker said: “I’m going to throw in a name here. I think it would be very interesting, he’s certainly a brilliant coach.”A certain Lee Carsley – who they probably won’t think about.”He’s a really imaginative coach, he plays attacking football.”From what I heard from England players, they thought he was really good. Really interesting and thoughtful on the game.”Copy linkCopiedZidane the fan favourite to replace Ten Hag as Manchester United managerA survey conducted by BetMGM, which polled 1,000 Manchester United supporters — found that over a quarter of fans (26%) would like to see the Frenchman take over at Old Trafford ahead of Ten Hag’s former assistant and current interim manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy, at 20%.Gareth Southgate was also fancied by 20% of voters, while new England manager Thomas Tuchel was liked by 15%. Former United player and current Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick attracted 14% of votes — the same percentage as ex-Red Devils manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Eddie Howe.Interestingly, Ruben Amorim, Xavi Hernandez and Julian Nagelsmann – all fancied in the betting to replace Ten Hag – were not picked by any fans.Copy linkCopiedMicah Richards reacts to Ten Hag sacking and next managerSpeaking on the Rest is Football podcast, Richards said: “You have to give them time. “They have got some good people in the backroom staff. I think all the noises coming out of Man United are not good, leaks to the press and all of that sort of thing.”They had the meeting the other week with Ten Hag. It looked like he was going to be sacked, it didn’t happen and then it happens today. I think they have the right pieces in play.”Copy linkCopiedMan Utd chief tasked with choosing Ten Hag replacement has incredible hit-rateManchester United chief Dan Ashworth has the tough job of picking the club’s new manager after Erik ten Hag was sacked.Ashworth is set to lead the search and he boasts an impressive CV when it comes to appointing the right managers for the right teams.The 53-year-old previously worked for the FA and played a huge role in giving Gareth Southgate the England job in 2016.He revolutionised the team and guided the Three Lions to two Euros finals that ended in heartbreak.Ashworth then worked at Brighton, where he appointed Graham Potter as boss.He implemented an attractive style of play and took them from near the bottom of the league to European contenders.Ashworth then moved to Newcastle and he gave Eddie Howe the job, who led the Toon into the Champions League for the first time in two decades.Interestingly, Unai Emery was supposedly his first-choice at St James’ Park, but the Spaniard instead went on to oversee Aston Villa’s remarkable rise from relegation candidates to matching Europe’s elite.Copy linkCopiedTen Hag’s worst XI of Man Utd signings cost £300MILLIONErik ten Hag has been sacked with Manchester United 14th in the Premier League and £300MILLION out of pocket.The Dutchman was shown the exit door following 2-1 defeat at West Ham with club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy to take charge in the interim.Ten Hag leaves with an FA Cup and Carabao Cup to his name but in the league and Europe results were underwhelming.And so too was his transfer business.In his two seasons, Ten Hag signed 21 players costing over £545m.Copy linkCopiedBREAKING: Ten Hag seen for first time since Man Utd sackingThe Dutchman has been spotted for the first time since his dramatic Manchester United axing.Ten Hag was dismissed as Red Devils manager on Monday morning.Ten Hag was seen getting into the back of his car as he left his Cheshire home.The 54-year-old bowed his head as he prepared to travel back to the Netherlands.Man Utd released a blunt 87-word statement as the 54-year-old was relieved of his duties.It read: “Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men’s first-team manager.”Erik was appointed in April 2022 and led the club to two domestic trophies, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024.”We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.”Credit: ZenpixCopy linkCopiedHojlund reactsRasmus Hojlund has taken to Instagram to react to the sacking of Erik ten Hag.The forward was signed by the Dutchman in 2023, joining from Atalanta for an initial fee of £64million.Copy linkCopiedDamning numbersHere are Man Utd’s defensive numbers compared to other Premier League clubs under Ten Hag:Copy linkCopiedOle ‘under consideration’ for bombshell Man Utd returnFormer Man Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is being linked with a stunning Old Trafford return.The Red Devils are searching for a new manager after sacking Erik ten Hag on Monday.Ten Hag leaves the club with United languishing in 14th place in the Premier League.He was given his marching orders following a dismal run of just 4 wins in 14 games across all competitions.Ex-United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy has been put in temporary charge and is currently favourite to take over full-time.But it’s reportedly another blast from the past who may be back in the dugout long-term.Solskjaer – who has been a free agent since United dismissed him in November 2021 – could benefit from the awkward timing of the dismissal.Ten Hag is due a whopping £17million in compensation with United having to buy him out of his huge contract.Cost-cutting is already underway at Old Trafford and club bosses are reportedly scouring cheaper options.According to the Manchester Evening News, free agent Solskjaer is therefore “under consideration for a return.”The report adds it is unclear if he is viewed as a” serious long-term option as manager or a backroom staff member.”Copy linkCopiedHow much Man Utd will have to pay Ten Hag after sackingIt has been revealed how much Manchester United will have to pay up after sacking Erik ten Hag.According to reports, the Red Devils will have to pay up to £15million to the Dutchman.The former Ajax manager was reportedly earning £6.75m-per year with a contract until the summer of 2026.Ten Hag signed a contract extension at the start of July after winning the FA Cup with United.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedBiggest net spend since Ten Hag joined Man UtdHere is a list of the highest-spending Premier League clubs since Erik ten Hag was appointed Man Utd manager in 2022.Chelsea – £715mMan Utd – £400mTottenham – £310.5mArsenal – £285mNewcastle – £235mCredit: GETTYCopy linkCopiedFerdinand reacts to Ten Hag sackingFormer Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand, spoke on his YouTube reacting to the breaking news regarding Ten Hag, he said: “I look at Ineos and I think about the way things panned out at the end of the season.”Did they back themselves into a corner, with the way that they handled stuff in the summer?”They’ll look back and go ‘we could have handled it better’. I think having a manager in place and actively looking for new managers and it becoming public knowledge, isn’t a great way to do it.”It isn’t a great way to advertise for the job. It’s hard for the guy coming in, to come in under that cloud.”It’s also even harder for the guy whose in the hot seat, still the manager and then they keep him as the manager and he has to face questions constantly about his standing within the organisation.”It’s not easy to navigate through a situation that is so public, a club the size of Manchester United but if they’re honest, Ineos – they could have done that in a better way.”Copy linkCopiedWhat did Ten Hag win during his time as Man Utd manager?The Dutchman was in charge of the Red Devils for two-and-a-half years.Ten Hag enjoyed a successful first season as United boss with a third-placed finish in the Premier League and his side won the EFL Cup – the club’s first major honour in six years.However, the Dutchman failed to build on the success of his opening season after a disappointed eighth-placed finish, United’s lowest in Prem history.United were also knocked out in the group stage of the Champions League.That said, the Red Devils did end the season on a high by winning the FA Cup, beating rivals Man City 2-1 at Wembley.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopied’Thanks for everything boss!’Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has had his say following Ten Hag’s sacking.He posted on Instagram: “Thanks for everything boss! I appreciate the trust and the moments we share together, I wish you all the best in the future.”Even knowing the last period isn’t been great from all of us I hope you fans can keep with you the good things the manager as done for our club!”Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedNeville on Ten Hag’s sackingGary Neville has had his say on Ten Hag’s sacking as Man Utd boss. “The big shock for me is just how bad they’ve been, with the new signings that have come in,” he told Sky Sports News. “I felt as though they would be able to get a decent level of performance together. The fact it was a smooth transfer window, the fact with Erik Ten Hag, there’s some stability.”But the fact they’re in 14th is unnacceptable. You can’t be in 14th after nearly nine or 10 games with the level of spend that’s occured.”I was hoping it would end differently, I think United fans were hoping that the manager could keep his job, but it’s just not been the case.”Copy linkCopiedMore potential candidatesEdin TerzicEarlier this month, SunSport revealed Edin Terzic is the shock name on United’s list to replace Ten Hag.German Terzic took Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final last season before surprisingly quitting.He has many admirers at Old Trafford and it would he a smart but unexpected move to go for him now they’ve sacked Ten Hag.Graham PotterThe English boss, 49, has been out of work since being axed by Chelsea in April 2023.He’s reportedly highly-thought of by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and likes to play attacking football.Credit: PAKieran McKennaMcKenna, 38, worked as Under-18s coach at both Spurs and Man Utd before landing the top job at Ipswich Town.The young boss incredibly guided the Tractor Boys to back-to-back promotions, guiding them from League One back to the Premier League, ending the club’s 22-year absence.McKenna has Ipswich playing exciting, expansive football – something Man Utd fans crave.Copy linkCopiedRunners and ridersSo who could take over as permanent United boss following Ten Hag’s axing as manager?We know Ruud van Nistelrooy will take over on a permanent basis.But here’s who could take the post full-time.Ruud van NistelrooyVan Nistelrooy landed a coaching job under Ten Hag earlier this year and is said to have done a superb job working with the clubs strikers behind the scenes.And now he will have the chance to show what he can do in a live ‘interview’ of sorts. How long the club will give him is another matter.Gareth SouthgateSouthgate has been out of club management for 15 years and a portion of England fans were frustrated by what they deemed a defensive style.However, his ability to largely galvanise the fan-base and deal with the pressure of one of the biggest jobs in sport with real class would be a huge asset for United.Copy linkCopiedPiers Morgan has his sayPiers Morgan has made his feelings clear on Erik Ten Hag’s sacking. The Sun columnist has been staunch in his views that Ten Hag should’ve been sacked months ago. Copy linkCopiedNext up for UnitedThings weren’t going to get any easier for Erik Ten Hag, had he kept his position as manager. United take on Chelsea next in the Premier League in what will now be the all-important audition process for Van Nistelrooy. As a player, the former Real Madrid striker netted three times against the Blues in the Premier League. He’ll be desperate for one of his own strikers to try and do the same on Sunday night. Enzo Maresca’s Blues have enjoyed a good start to their campaign and currently sit fifth on 17 points. Copy linkCopiedGrim viewingJust three wins in the league this season, with one of those coming against 20th-place Southampton. Copy linkCopiedIt was comingThe fact of the matter is; this shouldn’t have been a surprise to Manchester United fans or Erik Ten Hag. Although the former Ajax man started well, winning a Carabao Cup and securing a Champions League spot in his first season, the club have dithered ever since. United finished eighth last season, their lowest ever league position, and even their FA Cup win over Manchester City looks to have papered over the cracks. The club are languishing in 14th after nine games this season. New owners Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS Group have ultimately decided that enough was enough. With a goal difference of -3, having picked up just three points from three games in Europe, they decided it was time for a change. Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedResults this seasonThey simply haven’t been good enough this season. Man Utd 1-0 Fulham – WBrighton 2-1 Man Utd – LMan Utd 0-3 Liverpool – LSouthampton 0-3 Man Utd – WMan Utd 7-0 Barnsley – WPalace 0-0 Man Utd – DMan Utd 1-1 Twente – DMan Utd 0-3 Tottenham – LMan Utd 3-3 Porto – DVilla 0-0 Man Utd – DMan Utd 2-1 Brentford – WFenerbahce 1-1 Man Utd – DWest Ham 2-1 Man Utd – LCopy linkCopiedRuud awakeningRuud van Nistelrooy will take charge as manager on an interim basis.The former Red Devils striker only came in as Ten Hag’s assistant at the beginning of this season.And already he finds himself in one of the biggest jobs in football.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopied More

ARSENAL and Liverpool had to settle with a point each in a thrilling top of the table clash at the Emirates.Bukayo Saka opened the scoring inside 10 minutes after his return from injury before Virgil van Dijk headed in from a corner to level things at the Emirates.The Gunners then regained the lead just before the break with Mikel Merino heading home from a brilliant set-piece routine, but Mo Salah scored a late goal to allow Liverpool to keep pace with Man City at the top of the Premier League.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from the Emirates with our live blog below…Arteta ‘disappointed’Mikel Arteta believed his team had enough chances to win the game.He said: “Really disappointing not to win it because when you look at the chances, we should have won the game.”The team played so well, we were dominant and very determined. Really aggressive and played in the right areas to create some big chances. We are open in transition for the second goal. Against this team, you cannot do that if you want to win the game.”It is what it is at the moment. The backline is completely different to what we’re used to. We should have won the game.”Copy linkCopiedFull reportHere’s what SunSport Chief Sports Writer Dave Kidd made of the match:Copy linkCopied’Worst decision ever seen’Arsenal fans were left fuming after referee Anthony Taylor denied them a late winner at the Emirates.Taylor blew the whistle in the build up to what surely would have been the winning goal in north London…Copy linkCopiedNumber crunchHer’es a full breakdown, by the numbers of the 2-2 draw between Arsenal and Liverpool.Copy linkCopiedHenry momentJamie Carragher and Theo Walcott had a brilliant ‘Thierry Henry moment’ in the Sky Sports studio after the 2-2 draw…Copy linkCopiedSaka statsBukayo Saka has enjoyed a blistering start to the season and has already been involved in ten goals this season in just eight matches.He has three goals and seven assists – and his race to ten in eight is the fewest games by an Arsenal player in a campaign since Cesc Fabregas in 2009-10.The little magician managed it in six matches that year.Copy linkCopied’He shut me up’Ian Wright was alongside Alan Shearer and Steve McManaman in the Premier League Productions studio to watch the game.At half-time, the Arsenal legend was calling Salah ‘No Salah’ given his lack of impact in the game – something McManaman brought up at full-time.Wright responded: “Yea, he shut me up, that’s what he does.”Copy linkCopiedSalah on fireIt should have come as no surprise that Mo Salah netted against Arsenal – he absolutely loves playing against the Gunners.That was the Egyptian’s 11th goal in just 15 matches against the north London side.Only Harry Kane (14) and Wayne Rooney (12) have more goals in the Premier League against Arsenal.Salah also has a couple of assists to make it 13 goal contributions in 15 matches.Copy linkCopied’Lack of intensity’Former Arsenal star Theo Walcott said he was disappointed at Arsenal’s performance today.He said on Sky Sports: “Arsenal weren’t missing many of their starting players today. This was an opportunity for Liverpool to show exactly what they were made of. “I was disappointed with their lack of intensity. I don’t want Arsenal to lose that, the ability to put teams to the sword.”Copy linkCopied’We deserved to win’And yet more from Mikel Arteta here: Very proud of the team. The courage, quality, domination in the game we wanted to play especially in the first half. Should’ve been a bigger score in first half, they came out in second half and we didn’t have courage.We deserved to win the game. We were the better team. Learnings from both goals, second one is a transition moment we have to end up in final third. You can not give that away.We were clear in what we had to do and the execution, determination and aggression with and without the ball was really good. A few moments where we should’ve put the ball in the net.In the first phase we needed more courage to play. We created big opportunities.Mikel ArtetaCopy linkCopiedMore from ArtetaReally disappointing not to win it because when you look at the chances, we should have won the game.The team played so well, we were dominant and very determined. Really aggressive and played in the right areas to create some big chances. We are open in transition for the second goal. Against this team, you cannot do that if you want to win the game.It is what it is at the moment. The backline is completely different to what we’re used to. We should have won the game.Mikel ArtetaCopy linkCopiedMatch reportThere were enough hard-luck stories to fill a library for Arsenal as Mo Salah stole a point. The bullet-ridden Gunners ended up with a completely makeshift back four, having seen Liverpool skipper Virgil Van Dijk escape an early yellow card only to equalise Bukayo Saka’s early opener.Through in a decent penalty shout against Ibrahima Konate and it was no wonder Mikel Arteta was left with a feeling of intense frustration on a day when his team were passionate and the Emirates throbbed with sound.  The result left Arsenal five points adrift of leaders Manchester City, who are a point ahead of Arne Slot’s men.  Saka, who was outstanding on his return from injury, and Mikel Merino twice put Arsenal in front – but they were pegged back both times by a Liverpool side who rode their luck and kept their heads in this hostile environment. By the time Salah struck on the break ten minutes from time that Arsenal backline read Thomas Partey, Ben White, Jakub Kiwior and Myles Lewis-Skelly. Copy linkCopiedMentality struggle?Roy Keane admits he’s WORRIED about the mentality of Arsenal at the minute.As per the BBC, he said: “I’m starting to worry about Arsenal’s mentality now. There are elements when they get in front and seem to sit back and settle for 2-1 instead of going to get the third goal.” It was almost ‘let’s hope we can win 2-1’ and when you’re up against good players like Salah they can punish you.”Copy linkCopiedArteta on injuriesHe addressed the injuries to Timber and Gabriel, while also providing a disappointing update on Martin Odegaard.On today’s injuries, he said: “I don’t exactly know what happened but Timber said he couldn’t carry on. And Gabi as well.”Then on Odegaard he added: “As well, he’s still a bit far.”Copy linkCopiedPivotal?Virgil van Dijk told Match of the Day ‘enjoy the ride’ as he batted away questions on the importance of this game in the title race.He said: “I think someone said to me last year, Man City lost here and they won the league. We’re in October. I’ve read so many things that Arsenal are out of the title race if they lose.”We’re in the business where you can be on top one week and then not. We are in October and let’s see what it brings us at the end of the season. Enjoy the ride.”Copy linkCopiedCool and calmRoy Keane reckons Arne Slot’s calmness away from the pitch will stand Liverpool in good stead.He told Sky: “You have to defend properly and you know with people like Salah, you’ll score goals. There’s definitely a calmness to Liverpool and that comes from the manager, who speaks very well.“Even 2-1 down today they didn’t panic. There’s a lot of self belief which comes from winning football matches. We can argue all day about if they’ve been tested yet, but they’ve turned up.“Generally speaking they look a strong, efficient team. They keep turning up and that gives you a chance of winning football matches.”More from Slot shortly.Copy linkCopiedArsenal ratingsSunSport’s Jordan Davies was at the Emirates and has run the rule over the home side.Here’s a snippet of his ratings, and you can read what he’s said on every Gunners playerThomas Partey – 8Bukayo Saka – 9Leandro Trossard – ??Copy linkCopiedYoung starBukayo Saka’s goal today against Liverpool means he’s the youngest player in Arsenal’s history to hit 50 Premier League goals.He edges out idol Thierry Henry, who scored his 50th goal against – you guessed it, Liverpool!Henry was 24 years and 128 days when hitting that milestone.Saka, currently 23 years and 52 days old, now has another personal record to his name.Copy linkCopiedKon the ManIbrahima Konaté was Liverpool’s ‘best player by a mile’.That’s the view of Reds legend Jamie Carragher, who felt the defender helped Trent Alexander-Arnold in a way Virgil van Dijk failed to do for Andy Robertson in the opener.He told Sky: “He was amazing, Konate was fantastic. Honestly he was Liverpool’s best player by a mile.”How he helped cover that side, coming across. Konate’s natural reaction is to get across.”He’s actually picked and was bought because he’s playing alongside Trent Alexander-Arnold (who moves into midfield) and finds himself as a centre back and right back in a game.”Copy linkCopiedSaka reactsBukayo Saka believes Arsenal players let themselves down in the second half to throw away two points.He told Sky Sports: “We’re a bit disappointed. Credit to Liverpool, they’re a good team.“But we just feel like we didn’t show our best selves for the full 90 minutes.“I think first half we showed our qualities, we dominated and they scored from a set piece but didn’t really have any other shots.“Second half we sat back a bit and we weren’t at our best. Liverpool had more momentum and won more duels than us.“Losing Gabriel, he’s a big player for us. That’s not an excuse, we have to adapt and do our best whoever is on the pitch.”Copy linkCopiedHow we stand nowA point apiece leaves Manchester City on top following their win yesterday.Liverpool now a point behind and Arsenal a further FOUR behind.Giving City a five-point lead after nine games, a long way back already for the Gunners.Copy linkCopiedVan Dijk reactsThe Liverpool skipper tells Sky Sports: “It’s a very tough place to come, obviously teams have noted that over the years.”It was difficult for them as well but to come back twice is a good thing. We take a point and go.”They’re very solid in set pieces but when I was marked by Partey, he was only looking at me so it was quite easy to get away from him.”We didn’t create many chances in the second half but we were much more dominant and winning second balls and we kept trying.”Copy linkCopiedSummarisedRoy Keane told Sky Sports: “I thought it was a disappointing game, a real lack of quality.“Arsenal go 2-1 up and Liverpool lacked intensity but they probably deserved to get the draw at the end.“Not a great game but a draw probably the right result.”Copy linkCopiedTightLiverpool marginally shading the stats though there wasn’t much in it at all.They certainly edged the second period.Copy linkCopiedFT summary from Dave Kidd at the EmiratesYou only had to look across Arsenal’s back four in the final minutes to realise how tough Mikel Arteta’s had it – midfielder Thomas Partey at right-back; right-back Ben White at centre-half, then understudy Jakub Kiwior and youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly.Given that, it was little wonder that Mo Salah stole a point for Liverpool, who rode their luck and kept their heads in an impressively hostile Emirates environment. Copy linkCopied More