Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand stated that new owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe won't hesitate to dismiss Erik ten Hag this summer if the Dutchman is no longer seen as the club's future.
Ten Hag's position at Old Trafford remains uncertain following Saturday's 2-1 defeat to Fulham, and Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos group has been exploring replacements for the Dutchman, with Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi being one of the options.
With the Red Devils currently trailing by eight points in the race for the top four, they face another significant challenge on Sunday afternoon against Manchester City at the Etihad.
Ferdinand suggested that unless there is a notable improvement in performances in the coming weeks, Ten Hag could face dismissal.
"If he [Ten Hag] runs it close [to getting top four], they see an upturn in form and the environment at the training ground and can see something where 'we can see what it looks like going into next season if we add the right pieces to it'... a lot of moving parts have to fall into place for him to stay," the ex-United defender told FIVE.
"If they don't finish the season well, they're losing games and it looks like the dressing room isn't a harmonious place, one thing I would say is I don't think Jim Ratcliffe and his team are shy of making big decisions. It won't be a big thing for them if they had to [sack him]. I don't think they look at it and go 'We've got to work out the media and PR'. No, no. What's right for Man United now? We'll do."
The lack of a clear identity is a concern for many observers of the current United team, as they seem to lack a distinct style of play each week. Ferdinand also highlighted this issue.
"If you coach a team, you're not just coaching 11 - it's everyone in the squad. So when they come in, they should all have their roles and responsibilities to be able to implement a certain way of playing. Man United just don't have a style of play at the moment, where you go ' that is them'.
"Look at all the best teams, you know how they play. City; Postecoglou - you know how his team is going to play. Arteta, you know how his team is going to play."
