Contract clause complicates Man Utd's decision to sack Erik ten Hag

According to recent reports, Erik ten Hag could potentially receive a higher compensation fee if Manchester United decides to terminate his contract than initially anticipated.

Throughout a largely underwhelming 2023/24 season that saw the Red Devils finish eighth - their lowest-ever placement in the Premier League era - Ten Hag's job security has been a subject of much speculation.

However, after a surprising win against Manchester City in the FA Cup final last Saturday, there are growing rumors of Ten Hag remaining with the club. This is despite claims made before the game that Manchester United had already resolved to sack him.

The Times has recently reported that if Manchester United follows through with their plans to dismiss Ten Hag, a larger compensation fee would be owed to him due to his FA Cup success. Had the team been defeated by City, the club could have saved on the compensation fee due to a contract provision that relates the payout to European competition participation. However, the FA Cup victory ensures the team's participation in the Europa League.

Ten Hag hopes that the decision regarding his future with the club is made soon, allowing him to start his job hunt if necessary. The Dutch coach admitted last week that he has been approached by other clubs, but his priority remains Manchester United.

The decision on Ten Hag's contract, which still has one year remaining, will be made by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Avram Glazer, Sir Dave Brailsford, and Jason Wilcox during their end-of-season review of the club.

There are rumors linking various managers to United, including mentions of names like Thomas Tuchel and Roberto De Zerbi as potential successors. At the same time, it appears that former coach Kieran McKenna is more likely to remain at Ipswich Town despite strong rumors about him returning to Old Trafford.