Erik ten Hag’s uncertain future leaves key coaching staff in limbo as Man United boss battles to remain in charge of the Red Devils next season

The uncertainty over Erik ten Hag‘s future as Manchester United manager has left his coaching staff in limbo.

Ten Hag, who faces a crucial FA Cup quarter-final against arch rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday, is fighting to stay in charge for a third season.

Mail Sport revealed earlier this month that the United players are increasingly doubtful Ten Hag will survive if he fails to qualify for the Champions League or lift a trophy.

Even if new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe keeps faith with the Dutchman, there is no guarantee all his coaching staff will be retained by Ineos who have been analysing every aspect of United’s football operations in recent months.

Significant changes are being made to the set-up with Dan Ashworth taking over as director of football and Jason Wilcox expected to become technical director.

Steve McClaren (left) and Mitchell van der Gaag (right) are among staff with uncertain futures

Forwards coach Benni McCarthy is one of the members of staff out of contract this summer

Ten Hag and his assistants Mitchell van der Gaag and Steve McClaren signed three-year contracts when he moved to United from Ajax in the summer of 2022, although there is no guarantee they will stay for the duration of those deals.

Others, such as forwards coach Benni McCarthy, will be out of contract in June and have been seeking assurances over their futures at the club.

McCarthy is popular with the first-team squad due to his experience as a player, which included winning the Champions League with FC Porto, and ability to speak a number of different languages.

But the 46-year-old South African risks being stranded if he turns down other offers to stay at United and then Ten Hag is sacked.

Another key member of United’s coaching staff, Eric Ramsay, recently left the club to become head coach at Minnesota United.