Reports indicate that Manchester United has engaged in discussions with Xavi, the Barcelona legend, regarding a potential managerial position to succeed Erik ten Hag. The pressure is mounting on Ten Hag despite a recent victory against Brentford, as the club sits in a disappointing 12th place in the Premier League with only three wins from eight matches this season.
Also Read: Manchester United 2-1 Brentford: Comeback Victory Eases Pressure on Ten Hag
Ten Hag’s position has been precarious, especially after a rocky start to the 2024-25 campaign. United’s comeback from a goal down against Brentford was crucial, but questions linger about whether this win can spark a turnaround for the team, which has seen several previous false dawns under the Dutchman.
Last summer, United explored options for a managerial change but opted for patience with the 54-year-old this season, resisting calls for a change during the recent international break. However, according to the Daily Mail, the club has held talks with Xavi on two occasions in recent months, keeping their options open for a possible future transition.
Xavi, who is regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of all time, has been out of work since his dismissal from Barcelona in May. He briefly considered leaving the club at the start of 2024 but chose to stay on before eventually parting ways with the club after a tumultuous period. During his illustrious playing career at Barcelona, Xavi won numerous titles, including eight La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies.
While Manchester United has publicly expressed support for Ten Hag, the club’s management may reconsider if they feel European qualification is at risk. Ten Hag has addressed the speculation surrounding his future, labeling it as “fairytales and lies” in his pre-match press conference before the Brentford match, asserting that there is internal stability within the club.
Despite finishing eighth in the league last season and currently sitting in the bottom half of the table, Ten Hag has managed to secure trophies in each season of his tenure. However, United legend Patrice Evra has expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs at the club, stating that the achievements under Ten Hag are “not enough” for a club of United’s caliber.
Evra remarked, “It’s not just about this season; since we won the last league in 2013, the club has been in chaos.” He emphasized the need for a rebuilding phase, as rivals are improving and playing better football.
Looking ahead, Ten Hag faces a critical week as Manchester United prepares to face Fenerbahce, managed by former United boss Jose Mourinho, in the Europa League before returning to Premier League action against West Ham. The upcoming matches will be crucial for Ten Hag to prove his capability to turn the club’s fortunes around.
