Jamie Carragher makes gloomy prediction for Man Utd after Fulham win

Another top-four defeat would be enough to see Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag lose his job, according to Jamie Carragher.

Ten Hag signed a contract extension at Old Trafford last summer after leading the Red Devils to a surprise FA Cup final victory over Manchester City. It was his second trophy in two seasons at the club, following their successful 2023 EFL Cup final win over Newcastle.

United, however, struggled in the Premier League, dropping to eighth place, eight points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa. Only that FA Cup win was enough to secure Europa League qualification.

With that in mind, Ten Hag is under immense pressure to perform this season, but he at least saw his side start positively as a late goal from debutant Joshua Zirkzee gave Fulham a 1-0 victory in the Premier League season opener at Old Trafford.

Jamie Carragher makes prediction for Man Utd

Following United’s victory over the Cottagers, former Liverpool and England defender Carragher denied claims the Red Devils were in contention for the title.

Carragher even indicated that he was convinced that it would be a challenge for Ten Hag to remain in the Old Trafford dugout.

“The target for United has to be the top four. I think if Manchester United miss out on the Champions League positions again, it will be difficult to see Erik ten Hag here next season,” the 46-year-old told Sky Sports.

“What they have to watch out for is that they fall out of that area at some point. They don’t always have to be in the top four, but they always have to be within reach.

“If they get into a situation in November or December where they are seven or eight points behind, I think he could have a problem.

“But I don’t think anyone here thinks United are in the title race. They are building to try and get there, but they have to make sure they are in the Champions League next season.”