'I wouldn't be surprised' - Paul Scholes gives verdict on Erik ten Hag's Manchester United future

Former midfielder Paul Scholes does not believe Erik ten Hag will be Manchester United's manager next season, admitting that he thinks Ineos have already made a decision on the Dutchman's future.

Scholes made the admission following Sunday's 3-1 defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. The reverse has left United 11 points shy of the Champions League places with 11 games to go.

The Reds have lost each of their last two Premier League outings and the Manchester Evening News, following the 2-1 defeat to Fulham just over a week ago, reported that Ten Hag's position at the club is uncertain. Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his Ineos Group are understood to have analysed potential replacements.

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United finished third in the Premier League last season and won the Carabao Cup, meaning they have failed to build on those successes so far. The only way they can possibly deem this season a success is if they finish inside the top four and win the FA Cup.

Regardless of what happens between now and May, however, Scholes believes a different figure will occupy the managerial hot seat at Old Trafford next term.

"What we're seeing is a million miles away from a team that should be challenging for the league," said Scholes, speaking to Premier League Productions. "Every single season it's just so far away.

"I think they [Ineos] have already made their mind up. I don't think he will be there next season. No.

"From the interviews we've heard with Sir Jim, I thought there was a little bit of negativity towards the club the last 10 or 11 years and especially the last two years. I