Five games that could decide Erik ten Hag's Man United fate amid sack rumours

Erik ten Hag’s future at Manchester United could be decided by five key matches.

The Dutchman enjoyed a decent first season in charge after winning the Carabao Cup and securing a place in the Champions League.

Heading into the 23/24 campaign, it was expected that United would challenge the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal after a summer of big spending.

However, despite the additions of Mason Mount, Andre Onana and Rasmus Hojlund, United have so far struggled after collecting just 15 points from their opening 10 league matches.

After last weekend’s Manchester derby defeat by City, Ten Hag is now under pressure to deliver better results.

In recent days, the odds of Ten Hag getting sacked have been slashed, with La Liga legend Zinedine Zidane one of the main favourites to replace him.

The Dutchman’s future could now be decided by five key matches that are on the horizon.

Starting with Wednesday night, the Old Trafford club are taking on Newcastle United as they look to continue their defence of the Carabao Cup.

After this weekend’s Premier League tie against Fulham, United are back in Champions League action as they take on FC Copenhagen in what will be a must-win game if they are to qualify for the last 16.

Their Champions League tie against Turkish side Galatasaray will also be extremely important in their bid to advance to the next round.

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After that, United are set to take on Newcastle and Chelsea in the Premier League in the space of five days.

If United fail to win any of the above-mentioned matches, the pressure will then be firmly on Ten Hag and he could well be dismissed.

Despite the poor performance against City, Ten Hag was adamant that his players have made progress.

He said after the match: “The three games before we won, and the spirit is very good, so I think we are on the way up.

“The start was difficult but we are on the way up. I am sure when we have some injured players coming back then our side will be stronger. We have to be patient.”

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