Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s reaction says it all as Man Utd chiefs prepare for Erik ten Hag decision

Sir Jim Ratcliffe watched Manchester United’s 0-0 draw with Aston Villa (Image: Catherine Ivill/AMA)

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a co-owner of Manchester United, was present for the team’s 0-0 draw with Aston Villa on Sunday, amid growing rumors regarding manager Erik ten Hag’s job.

After Manchester United and Aston Villa drew goalless, Sir Jim Ratcliffe remained silent while Erik ten Hag’s future remained uncertain.

The scrutiny on the troubled Dutchman had intensified considerably prior to Sunday’s highly anticipated match between United and Villa. In the end, the score was 0-0, which might have given Ten Hag some much-needed relief.

Ratcliffe was at Villa Park with his right-hand man, Sir Dave Brailsford, as well as Omar Berrada, the club’s chief executive, and Dan Ashworth, the new sporting director. But when the last whistle blew, the Ineos CEO quickly fled.

Ratcliffe left quickly, but Ashworth and Berrada were spotted exchanging a quick chat, according to BBC Sport. Tuesday’s board meeting, which is scheduled by United’s senior management, is anticipated to cover Ten Hag’s status.

“They have only visited…They haven’t been there for very long, so you could count it in weeks almost. As a result, they should reflect and make some wise choices. Our goal is very clear: we want to return Manchester United to its rightful place, which is plainly not where it is at the moment.

After the Villa game, Ten Hag used the chance to emphasize that he and the club’s administration are in agreement, saying to Sky Sports: “We always speak, every week we speak.” We all understand that the process we are working through is one that will take time, and we are all on the same page.

“We have survived two extremely difficult away games. We demonstrated our faith and belief as a team.