Man Utd and Sir Jim Ratcliffe blasted over 'bizarre' Erik ten Hag situation

Alan Shearer has blasted Manchester United for their treatment of Erik ten Hag, accusing them of undermining him by engaging in talks with other managers.

Despite leaving Ten Hag in limbo for two-and-a-half weeks while they considered potential replacements, United have confirmed that he will remain at the helm next season.

Thomas Tuchel was among those approached by United, but when an agreement couldn’t be reached with a suitable candidate, they decided to stick with Ten Hag.

Former England captain and Newcastle striker Shearer believes this approach has weakened Ten Hag’s authority and damaged his reputation among his players.

He also lambasted United for openly admitting they were scouting for a replacement while Ten Hag was still in post. Speaking to Betfair, Shearer said: “It’s been confirmed that Ten Hag will stay on as the manager of United.

“Considering he had a bit of a pop at pundits after the FA Cup final, it was really interesting to see him being a pundit himself on television recently.

“But what a mess it’s been. How kind of United to go to Ibiza and inform him that he’s still wanted as the manager, and then tell him that they’ve even spoken to other candidates.

“It’s just a bizarre situation, it’s not how things should be done in football. If you’re going to speak to other managers, then speak to them, but keep it in house – you can’t let the public know.

“To be undermined like he has done, I know they’re now saying that he has their support and they want him to carry on, but from a personal and human point of view, it’s not the right way to treat someone.

“It takes a lot of his power away from him. Will the players look at him and think he’s a really strong manager and he’s in a strong position?

“Probably not, because of the way they have treated him. It was meant to be all new at Old Trafford with the very best coming in – I don’t think they’ve got off to a good start.”

After affirming that Ten Hag would remain at the helm, United divulged plans to initiate contract talks with the 54-year-old, who has only a year left on his current agreement.

Nevertheless, after enduring the stress and tension of recent weeks where his future appeared uncertain, Ten Hag confirmed on Dutch TV that reaching an agreement wouldn’t be smooth sailing.

United are scheduled to begin pre-season training on July 8, followed by their first friendly game against Rosenborg in Trondheim a week later, before jetting off to the US for their summer tour.