Erik ten Hag looks ahead with hope despite Manchester United’s ongoing struggle

Erik ten Hag remains confident he has the backing of Manchester United’s hierarchy and that improvements are on their way after a problematic night in Porto intensified talk about his position.

The 54-year-old’s future is the subject of widespread discussion just three months after Ineos committed to the Dutchman, extending his contract following an in-depth post-season review.

But the afterglow of May’s FA Cup win against Manchester City has long since faded, with Sunday’s 3-0 home...