According to English football legend Alan Shearer, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag’s job could be in jeopardy if the team does not achieve positive results in their next two matches.

Shearer stated, “For Ten Hag to keep his job until Christmas, Manchester United must show significant improvement. His future will likely depend on the outcomes of the next two games,” following United’s loss to Liverpool on September 1.

Despite Manchester United’s summer expenditure of over $263 million on new signings such as Lenny Yoro, Manuel Ugarte, and Matthijs de Ligt, Ten Hag’s team has had a disappointing start to the season, losing two out of their first three matches and currently sitting 14th in the Premier League.

Manchester United narrowly defeated Fulham 1-0 in their opener, but then suffered defeats to Brighton (1-2) and Liverpool (0-3).

Shearer commented, “After the defeats to Brighton and the heavy loss to Liverpool, if Manchester United does not show significant improvement in the next game or two, it will be very difficult for Ten Hag to keep his position.”

He added, “To be fair, Manchester United has backed Ten Hag financially. I’m not sure of the exact amount they’ve spent during his tenure, but it’s a substantial sum, possibly over £500 million. However, I don’t see any difference. There doesn’t seem to be a clear plan under Ten Hag. Look at HLV Arne Slot and his brief time at Liverpool—although he inherited a better team, Ten Hag has been at Old Trafford for a while and has spent a lot of money on players who aren’t even in the squad.”

Echoing Shearer’s views, former Premier League striker Chris Sutton believes Ten Hag could face dismissal if Manchester United’s form does not improve in September.

Sutton remarked, “It’s well known that Manchester United has looked for a new manager and couldn’t find one, which is why Ten Hag is still in charge. Fans will be asking after the first three games: ‘Has there been any noticeable change or improvement? Is the team progressing under Ten Hag?’

The honest answer to both questions is no. He’s won a few trophies since joining Manchester United, but overall, the club has regressed last season. Most people recognize this; the FA Cup win saved his job. There’s no doubt Ten Hag understands his fate if Manchester United doesn’t start this season well. Only a strong start can save his position at Old Trafford.”

Following the international break on September 11, Manchester United will visit Southampton on September 14 for a Premier League match. Three days later, they will face Barnsley in the third round of the League Cup, a competition Ten Hag previously won with Manchester United in his first season.