The manager of Manchester United, Erik ten Hag, expresses little concern regarding the possibility of being dismissed at the conclusion of the season.
Following Monday’s 4-0 loss against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, United finds themselves in eighth place in the Premier League standings, with an upcoming fixture against Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday.
The FA Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley on May 25 offers a chance for the club to redeem their season with a victory over their rivals.
Despite the precedent of Louis van Gaal’s dismissal in 2016 following an FA Cup triumph, Ten Hag indicates that the club’s owners comprehend the rationale behind his team’s performances this season.
“I think they have common sense,” said Ten Hag.
“They can see when you have 32 different backlines, when you lose eight centre-backs, when they see us use 13 different partnerships at centre-half, when we don’t have a left-back, when we have so many injuries – that will have a negative impact on results.”
Ten Hag said he was “not happy” with results this season, but that he has to be “realistic” given the injuries in his squad.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe acquired a 27.7% stake in the club in January, which has given the 71-year-old full control of football operations at Old Trafford.
Ten Hag asserts that he does not require a public vote of confidence from the board, notwithstanding the speculation surrounding his future.
“I don’t care if they do or they don’t, I’m working on improving and developing my team, that is my job here,” Ten Hag added.