In a significant turn of events, Manchester United's chief, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is reportedly considering the iconic Ruud van Nistelrooy as a potential replacement for Erik ten Hag, who is under severe scrutiny following a disappointing start to the season. With just three wins from eight matches and sitting precariously at 12th place in the Premier League, the Dutch manager's time at Old Trafford appears to be dwindling.

Former chief scout Mick Brown indicated that Ten Hag "doesn't have long left," suggesting that the club's leadership feels compelled to take decisive action amid the mounting pressure. "They need to show players, fans, and everyone that this performance is unacceptable," Brown commented.

As the club gears up for crucial matches against FC Porto in the Europa League and Aston Villa in the Premier League, many believe that poor results in these games could result in an immediate change at the helm. Brown praised Van Nistelrooy, stating, "He’d be a brilliant fit," adding that the former United striker might be offered a chance to prove himself as a long-term solution.

Van Nistelrooy, who scored an impressive 150 goals for the club as a player, has limited managerial experience. His most prominent role was leading PSV Eindhoven, where he guided the team to KNVB Cup success in his only season. He secured 33 wins from 51 matches but finished second in the league behind Feyenoord.

Ten Hag, on the other hand, acknowledged the urgent need for improvement but refuted claims that the club had set explicit targets for him. After suffering a humiliating 3-0 defeat to Tottenham, he stated, "We have to win trophies; that is what this club stands for," emphasizing the ambition to compete at the highest levels, including the Champions League.

With pressure mounting from fans and pundits alike—many of whom have criticized the team's performances—Manchester United is at a crossroads. Legends like Gary Neville and Paul Scholes have openly voiced their concerns about Ten Hag's management, with suggestions that the players appear "dead" and "uncoached."

As the situation unfolds, should Manchester United pull the trigger on Ten Hag? Is Ruud van Nistelrooy truly the right choice to lead the club back to glory? Only time will tell if this legendary striker has what it takes to manage one of the most storied clubs in football history.