If Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's future as Manchester United boss was in doubt prior to Tuesday's Champions League clash with Istanbul Basaksehir, the heat is really on now.
The under-pressure Norwegian was looking for a reaction from his side in Turkey following Sunday's 1-0 loss to Arsenal which prompted a barrage of criticism from fans and ex-players alike.
But comical defending allowed veteran striker Demba Ba to run virtually the length of the field to open the scoring in the 12th minute.
Advert
And United were caught napping again in the 40th minute when Juan Mata lost possession to Deniz Turuc. He squared for Ba, who let it run through his legs for Edin Visca to rifle home.
Advert
Anthony Martial pulled one back almost immediately to give the Red Devils hope but even the introduction of Edinson Cavani as a second-half substitute couldn't salvage a favourable result for United.
With Solskjaer's side sitting in 15th place in the Premier League, he knows defeat at Everton on Saturday could leave the United board with little choice but to relieve him of his services.
Ex-Chelsea man Jason Cundy told talkSport: "If they lose, this international break I think he goes.
Advert
"This is massive for Ole, I think if they were to lose against [Everton] then that international break... that can be a graveyard for some managers."
Mauricio Pochettino is the overwhelming favourite to replace Solskjaer if United decide to relieve the club legend of his duties.
The Argentine has been out of work following his dismissal from Tottenham nearly a year ago, but says he is ready to return.
"I always feel ready to be involved in the game again," Pochettino Sky Sports' Monday Night Football show.
Advert
"I love football, it's my passion, it's my job.
"I am looking for work. I love the game. I'm working and doing things but it's not the same as being involved every single day and sharing with your players and staff. You miss that, that's the reality.
"It's not stressful when you are working. It's not stressful to go into the training ground, to prepare the team, to compete."
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Manchester United, Mauricio Pochettino, Champions League, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
