Man Utd star makes feelings clear about Erik ten Hag as sack decision takes fresh twist

Scott McTominay has hailed Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag, insisting the Dutchman deserved last month’s FA Cup triumph amid intense scrutiny on his job. Two weeks on from the momentous Wembley win, Ten Hag’s future remains uncertain as INEOS complete a season review ahead of the first transfer window of their regime.

But he has received public backing from one of his most important players during a difficult 2023/24 campaign in the Old Trafford dugout.

Only Rasmus Hojlund and Bruno Fernandes scored more goals in all competitions than McTominay’s 10 last term.

Many of his strikes came as a substitute, sparing Ten Hag’s blushes further in United’s worst-ever Premier League season.

Recent reports claimed a decision on his future would be made this week. However, fresh claims today suggest INEOS’ review will enter a third week.

Coverage in the build-up to the FA Cup final surrounded the likelihood that the 54-year-old would be sacked regardless of the result.

That speculation has continued after the 2-1 victory over City, with the result and United’s performance leaving the situation more uncertain than ever.

But McTominay has paid tribute to Ten Hag, hailing his boss for how he has handled the unprecedented pressure that comes with the job.

“Sometimes people can have their opinions and say whatever they want. City are an amazing team, but we stuck together,” McTominay told the Mail.

“I want more moments like that. I came away from that FA Cup final thinking, ‘D’you know what, I want more of that’. That is my motivation.

“Every credit to Erik. The media makes it difficult. That’s the case for any Manchester United manager, given the magnitude of the club. That’s only normal, but he’s handled it extremely well.

“I am very, very pleased for him… he deserved that FA Cup. It’s not easy when everyone is writing you off, and you come up trumps.

“It makes a big difference to the feeling and confidence around the place. We know as players how big the club is. We expect everything that comes our way, whether it’s positive or negative.”

McTominay is expected to remain at United, but the club will likely listen to offers for his signature, just as they did last summer.

Ten Hag was ready to sanction the Scotland international’s sale, but his £40million valuation wasn’t met. West Ham United went closest but saw a £30m offer rejected.

The Red Devils are set to sign a new midfielder, which could limit McTominay’s game time further and increase the chances he pursues a new challenge away from his boyhood club.