Erik ten Hag has already made his feelings clear on Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of his potential appointment at Manchester United.
The Manchester Evening News understands the Dutchman has emerged as United’s preferred candidate to become the club’s next permanent manager and that Ajax expect him to make a move. The club have not yet made a final decision on their next manager, but still intend to make an appointment before the end of the season.
Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino remains under consideration. It’s Ten Hag though that now looks to be leading the way in the club’s search.
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United have been impressed by Ten Hag’s ability to assemble two successful teams following the sales of Matthijs de Ligt and Frenkie de Jong in 2019. Having joined Ajax in 2017, the Dutchman's potential for a long stint in charge also appeals to the club.
The 52-year-old is under contract at Ajax until next year, and would command a relatively low compensation fee. Should he make the move to Old Trafford, he would face a huge task this summer.
United face a big turnover of players at the end of the season following a dismal season. The likes of Paul Pogba, Edinson Cavani, Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial all look set to leave, while Cristiano Ronaldo’s future is uncertain.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner still has a year left on his deal after making his return to Old Trafford last summer, but the Portuguese could look to move on — particularly if United don’t qualify for the Champions League. Ten Hag, though, has already suggested he is an admirer of Ronaldo’s, which could leave the door open for him to stay.
Speaking before coming up against Juventus in 2019, Ten Hag said: "I think it's nice if Ronaldo plays. We want to play against the best possible opponent. That's a challenge and we like to face challenges. It's fantastic if you can compete against a player like Ronaldo."
Ten Hag and Pochettino remain the frontrunners for the job, and negotiations with either manager could be smoother following their respective sides’ exits from the Champions League. Pochettino is expected to be sacked by Paris Saint-Germain, with United having explored the possibility of releasing Pochettino from his contract in November.
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