Erik ten Hag‘s potential exit from Manchester United could spell trouble for some of the club’s big-name players.
The Dutch manager is said to be on his way out after Saturday’s FA Cup final against Manchester City, regardless of the outcome. And the club is already eyeing up possible replacements, with ex-Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel, former Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino, Ipswich Town‘s Kieran McKenna, Graham Potter and Brentford‘s Thomas Frank all in the running.
If Ten Hag does leave Manchester, it’ll be an even more significant summer for the club as they aim to lay the groundwork for a return to their former glories. And with that, the Mirror have named four United players who could find their time at Old Trafford coming to an end.
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Antony
Undoubtedly one of the biggest disappointments in Premier League history, Antony has not justified the £86million fee Ten Hag approved for his transfer from Ajax in 2022. An underwhelming debut season for United – where he managed eight goals in 44 matches – was followed by a paltry three goals in 38 games this term, including just one in the Premier League.
The club must brace themselves to take a significant hit on the Brazilian star, whose future at Old Trafford would appear to be hanging by a thread without the gaffer who brought him to Manchester.
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Luke Shaw
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Luke Shaw has been one of the more reliable members of United’s team since Ten Hag took over in 2022, playing 47 matches in all competitions last season to help the club secure a Champions League spot and win the EFL Cup. However, this season has seen the Three Lions star plagued by injuries.
He’s only made 15 appearances all campaign, with his last game coming back in February when United beat Luton Town 2-1. Shaw’s constant injury issues and his upcoming 29th birthday (in July) could signal a review of his status at Old Trafford, with Ten Hag’s potential replacement possibly seeking a younger alternative at left-back.
Scott McTominay
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Scotland star Scott McTominay has had the best goal-scoring season of his career, netting 10 goals in all competitions. He’s been a consistent choice for Ten Hag throughout the 2023/24 campaign but still finds himself fighting for validation.
It’s now seven years into McTominay’s tenure as a senior player at Old Trafford, and he still hasn’t locked down a spot in the starting line-up. His position in the squad could be seen as an opportunity for improvement in the summer if United decide to start afresh in more ways than one.
Casemiro
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Real Madrid legend Casemiro was one of several high-profile signings made by Ten Hag in his first season at the club. And while he impressed in his debut campaign in England, his second season has been nothing short of a disaster.
Regular minutes have been no issue, but the Brazilian has seemed out of place and faced harsh criticism from Jamie Carragher. The Liverpool legend suggested it’s time for him to move to the MLS following his poor performance in United’s 4-0 defeat to Crystal Palace earlier this month.
Casemiro, 32, has two more years left on his contract, which sees him rake in an eye-watering £300,000 a week. His situation would certainly be a priority for any Ten Hag replacement who’s looking to save on the balance sheet.