Erik ten Hag set to ‘arrive’ at Man Utd on Monday as decision is made on Cristiano Ronaldo future

As the 2021/22 season draws to a close for Manchester United, the focus is very much on the future and what life will be like under Erik ten Hag.

The new United manager took charge of his final Ajax game at the weekend, and it seems he’s already turned his attention to the Red Devils and has begun making plans for next campaign.

Between deciding which players will stay and leave, identifying transfer targets and implementing his tactical approach, there’s no shortage of jobs for Ten Hag to sort as soon as he arrives at United

That’s something which, according to reports elsewhere, could happen much earlier than was previously expected…

Ten Hag set to fly to England

As per journalist Fabrizio Romano, Ten Hag will travel to England on Monday to begin his new role with United, although Ralf Rangnick will still take charge of Sunday’s game against Crystal Palace.

Meanwhile, the Daily Mirror claim Ten Hag terminated the final six weeks of his Ajax contract to begin immediately with the Red Devils.

The Dutchman took charge of his final Ajax game at the weekend, which they drew 2-2 against Vitesse, and afterwards the manager confirmed he won’t attend the club’s post-season trip to Curacao.

“Tomorrow there will be a party with the staff but I’m not going to Curacao this week,” Ten Hag said on Sunday.

“There is a lot of work that still needs to be done. I think that’s understandable. This applies to every [new] club.

“A number of things still need to be organised with the staff and also with the squad. We will be working intensively on that from tomorrow.”

Ronaldo to remain

United’s new boss has also confirmed he wants to keep striker Cristiano Ronaldo at Old Trafford.

There have been no shortage of rumours and reports that the 37-year-old could be deemed surplus to requirements under Ten Hag, but he has insisted the Portugal captain is part of his plans.

"Ronaldo is a giant, because of what he’s already shown and I think he’s still very ambitious,” Ten Hag told De Telegraaf.

"Of course I would like to keep him. He’s been very important to Manchester United this year and can produce great statistics."

In the same interview, Ten Hag also confirmed he will essentially begin his role with United on Monday.

“From 16 May, I am the manager of Manchester United. A lot has to happen in preparation of the new season, such as the implementation of the staff members and the squad for next season. I will make my mark on both and I want it to be done extremely carefully.”

Transfer targets?

Speaking to De Telegraaf, Ten Hag was also asked about Antony and Jurrien Timber, both of whom have been linked with moves to Old Trafford.

While the 52-year-old didn’t give away any hints as to whether he will try and sign them this summer, Ten Hag did seem to imply both players could be on the move in the near future.

"I think all top clubs have Timber in their sights,” he said. “If Antony would go... it would be a blow for Ajax because in their current squad there is nobody to replace him.”