Ten Hag Labels Manchester United Relegation 'Certainly Possible' After Chelsea Defeat

Manchester United sit 17th in the Premier League table following a 2-0 loss at Chelsea, leading former manager Erik ten Hag to warn that relegation is a realistic threat.

Manchester United dropped to 17th place in the Premier League standings following a 2-0 defeat against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. The result, which leaves the club outside of the relegation zone only on goal difference, has increased pressure on head coach Michael Carrick. United have not been relegated from the top flight since 1974.

Speaking to ESPN NL's Goedemorgen Eredivisie, former manager Erik ten Hag stated that Manchester United being relegated this season is "certainly possible." Ten Hag, who now serves as the technical director for FC Twente, noted that the strength of squads and managers across the league can create a "vicious circle" for teams that fall into a difficult spell.

Ten Hag managed at Old Trafford from April 2022 until his dismissal in November 2024, a period during which he won the 2022-23 Carabao Cup and the 2023-24 FA Cup. During his tenure, the club finished third in his debut season before falling to eighth in 2023-24. He was sacked with the team in 14th place. Reflecting on his time with the club, Ten Hag also questioned the fitness and application of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Manchester United's upcoming schedule includes league fixtures against Aston Villa and Liverpool. The club is currently attempting to avoid a bottom-three finish for the first time in over 50 years.