Manchester United would face a significant financial burden should they decide to part ways with Erik ten Hag as their manager.

The Dutchman has encountered a challenging second season at the helm of the Red Devils, with a staggering nine losses in the opening 20 Premier League matches – and 14 losses in all competitions so far.

Although Ten Hag had a successful first season, securing a Champions League spot, their return to Europe’s most prestigious club competition was not as envisioned.

They only managed a scrappy 1-0 win against Copenhagen at Old Trafford, drew 3-3 against Galatasaray, and lost the other four (two of them against Bayern Munich) to finish bottom of Group H and bid goodbye to Europe.

Old Trafford is in disarray. Manchester United fans are disillusioned. It is difficult to believe that this is the same team that knocked Barcelona out of Europe last season.

Concerns have arisen regarding Ten Hag’s influence in the transfer market, with players such as Antony, Mason Mount, Andre Onana, and Rasmus Hojlund yet to justify their hefty price tags.

Some of these signings have seen limited playing time, and Ten Hag’s strategy of recruiting former players has yielded mixed results.

Ten Hag’s contract with Manchester United extends until 2025, and he is earning £9 million per year, with a weekly wage of £175,000.

Terminating his contract would likely cost the club around £20 million when it expires, and there could be additional fees such as compensation and severance payments associated with the contract, making the dismissal even more financially burdensome.

ALSO READ: Constantly battered by minnows: Is Manchester United still a big club?

Additionally, a new manager would inherit a squad consisting of several players brought in by Ten Hag, many of whom are on substantial contracts, with some having been signed as recently as the previous summer.

If Ten Hag fails to steer the club in the right direction, it could result in a significant financial setback for Manchester United.