Erik ten Hag does not anticipate being dismissed from Manchester United, while Thomas Tuchel is receptive to the position as officials convene on the crucial day.

In the wake of Manchester City’s recent legal triumph over the Premier League, the British media has turned its attention to what many are dubbing “D-Day” for Manchester United. Club officials are convening to discuss a range of pressing issues, not least the future of head coach Erik ten Hag, as the team grapples with a dismal start to the Premier League season.

After seven matches, United finds itself languishing in 14th place, having amassed a mere eight points. This marks the club’s worst start to a Premier League campaign, raising alarm bells among fans and pundits alike.

Majority shareholder Joel Glazer has made the trip from the USA for this crucial meeting, which will also see the presence of co-owner Jim Ratcliffe, Ineos head of sport Sir Dave Brailsford, sporting director Dan Ashworth, chief executive Omar Berrada, technical director Jason Wilcox, chief operating officer Collette Roche, and chief financial officer Roger Bell. The stakes could not be higher as they deliberate the club’s direction.

Interestingly, Ten Hag has reportedly taken a short holiday, as noted by the i newspaper. While it is understood that he has not been informed of any immediate threat to his position, there is a growing sense of unease. The football committee, comprising Glazer, Ratcliffe, and Brailsford, has previously explored alternatives, including Thomas Tuchel, Gareth Southgate, and Thomas Frank, which suggests that a change could be on the horizon.

Despite the swirling speculation, The Telegraph asserts that Ten Hag believes he is safe for the time being. The meeting in London, scheduled for Tuesday, was not specifically called to address his future but is part of a regular monthly gathering of the club’s executives. However, United’s poor performance this season, especially following a £200 million summer spending spree that has seen their total outlay under Ten Hag exceed £600 million, has inevitably led to questions about his suitability for the role.

Among the names being floated as potential replacements is former England manager Gareth Southgate, who could step in should the club decide to make a change. The Mirror has reported that Tuchel would be open to taking the reins at Manchester United, despite previous talks breaking down over the summer.

Meanwhile, the Guardian has revealed that Ruud van Nistelrooy is on standby to take over as interim manager if Ten Hag is dismissed. Van Nistelrooy, who became Ten Hag’s assistant in July, previously managed PSV Eindhoven, leading them to a KNVB Cup victory last season. The Guardian notes that he could serve as a caretaker while the club searches for a permanent replacement. This scenario echoes the situation in December 2018 when Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was appointed caretaker after Jose Mourinho’s departure, eventually earning a permanent contract due to his impressive results.

As the meeting approaches, all eyes will be on Manchester United to see if they will make a decisive move regarding Ten Hag’s future, or if they will continue to back their beleaguered manager in the hope of turning their fortunes around.