Sir Jim Ratcliffe 'wants to keep Erik ten Hag as Manchester United boss for rest of season'

Minority Manchester United owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly keen to retain the services of Erik ten Hag until at least the end of the season.

On Christmas Eve, it was confirmed that Ratcliffe had acquired a 25% stake in United that will see him take control of sporting operations at Old Trafford.

The development must now be officially ratified by the Premier League before he can take on day-to-day work at the Theatre of Dreams, but an agreement is in place where he will be consulted over any football-related business.

In the short term, the focus is on potential additions in the transfer market, with United first having to free up space on their wage bill and general outgoings.

Borussia Dortmund are seemingly making progress in their efforts to secure a loan deal for Jadon Sancho, who may be the first of several players to move elsewhere.

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Nevertheless, as much attention is being placed on the managerial hotseat, a consequence of United having already suffered 14 defeats in all competitions during 2023-24.

As well as being dumped out of the Champions League, United also sit in eighth position in the Premier League standings, eight points adrift of the top five.

However, according to ESPN, Ratcliffe's preference is for Ten Hag to stay in his job for the rest of 2023-24.

That is despite there said to be an acceptance that the current inconsistency cannot continue if they wish to eventually challenge for trophies under the Dutchman.

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The report adds that Graham Potter remains a name that is being considered as an eventual replacement, with the former Chelsea boss having already been sounded out regarding his interest.

Ratcliffe is a fan of the Englishman and has previously attempted to appoint him as manager of Nice, who he owns, before Potter rejected the move.

As it stands, United have just two fixtures in January, particularly important ones with the first coming away at League One outfit Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup third round on Monday night.

A home league fixture with Spurs follows that clash, United having the opportunity to make significant progress in their bid to chase down the club currently sitting in a spot that could lead to a Champions League place, depending on European results this season.