Manchester United's Pressure to Win Under Jim Ratcliffe

In a significant shift for Manchester United, new owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is streamlining operations to allow manager Erik Ten Hag to concentrate primarily on coaching. Ratcliffe's approach involves delegating responsibilities within the club's football structure, aiming for long-term success rather than overwhelming Ten Hag with administrative duties. Berrada, a key figure in the restructuring, emphasized the importance of a proactive management style, with executives regularly attending training sessions and engaging with players to foster a collaborative environment. As the new season approaches, expectations are high, with a top-four finish deemed the minimum requirement. Ten Hag is acutely aware of the pressure to validate Ratcliffe's faith in him, especially after a tumultuous summer that saw speculation about potential replacements. Despite flirtations with high-profile managers like Thomas Tuchel and Mauricio Pochettino, the decision was made to retain Ten Hag, who has shown a more approachable demeanor this summer, encouraging players to enjoy their downtime. The manager acknowledges the challenges ahead but remains committed to proving his worth. He has engaged in candid discussions with the leadership team, emphasizing the need to build strong relationships and demonstrate the club's potential over the coming seasons. With a solid support system now in place, Ten Hag faces the season with renewed determination, starting with the upcoming match against Fulham, where the pressure to deliver results will be palpable.