REVEALED: Sir Ratcliffe’s plans for Erik ten Hag as Man Utd manager

Erik ten Hag is set to receive assurances that he remains part of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s plans for Manchester United if the billionaire’s deal to oversee the club’s sporting operations goes through, according to a source.

Ratcliffe, the founder of INEOS, aims to secure a 25% stake in Manchester United through a significant investment of around £1.3 billion ($1.58 billion).

While Ratcliffe seeks to have influence over football operations, it’s been noted that any proposed changes would not involve replacing Ten Hag as the manager.

The Dutchman led Manchester United to a third-place finish in the Premier League and won the Carabao Cup in his first season in charge.

Despite a challenging start to the current campaign, during which the club has suffered six losses in 11 games in all competitions, INEOS prefers to retain Ten Hag as the manager.

A board meeting for Manchester United is scheduled for Thursday, where an agreement with Ratcliffe and INEOS could be finalized.

Ratcliffe appears to be aware that his offer to purchase a minority stake may not sit well with fans, as it would retain the Glazer family’s ownership at the club.

However, he hopes that by acquiring a 25% stake, it will pave the way for a potential full takeover in the future, though the Glazers will maintain their majority in the short term.

The possibility of ending the Glazers’ 18-year ownership generated excitement among supporters when it was announced that the American family might sell the club in November.

However, it was recently revealed that the only offer for 100% control of the club, made by Sheikh Jassim, had been withdrawn. The Qatari businessman cited the Glazers’ valuation as unrealistic.

If Ratcliffe’s bid is successful, he is expected to announce ambitious plans for Manchester United’s future to appease any unrest among supporters. These proposals may include a redevelopment plan for Old Trafford that could increase the stadium’s capacity from 76,000 to 90,000.