Man Utd have already decided manager ‘first in line’ to replace Erik ten Hag if he’s sacked

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag is already facing difficult questions are two defeats in their first three league games as those above him identify a likely successor

Manchester United are likely to pursue Thomas Tuchel if they do choose to make a managerial change.

Despite only being three games into the season Erik ten Hag is feeling the heat following back-to-back defeats – the most recent of which coming against Liverpool at Old Trafford.

The Dutchman faced a nervous wait in the summer to see if he would be retained. The new United hierarchy opted to stick by Ten Hag and spent the summer underlining their desire to back him – making numerous signings as his coaching staff also had a reshuffle. Many of last season’s problems are still evident however, with the Dutchman already facing difficult questions.

The reverse against Liverpool exposed the lack of playing style that despite the manager having more than two years in the role. Contingency plans have been drawn up should the worst case scenario play out with Tuchel the club’s ideal target.