Dion Fanning: Erik ten Hag is entering the danger zone for United managers

One of the enduring myths that Alex Ferguson’s reign as United manager planted in football discourse is that the first trophy is the hardest

STOP THE ROT: Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag before the pre-season friendly match between Manchester United and Athletic Bilbao at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Pic: Ben McShane/Sportsfile

Six months ago, Manchester United could be reassured that one authority figure was making the right calls.

In the aftermath of United’s Carabao Cup final victory over the rising challenge represented by Newcastle United, Erik ten Hag danced on the Wembley pitch with two of his players, the new signings Lisandro Martinez and Antony. The dad dancing, he would say later, was a nod to similar celebrations from their shared time at Ajax.