Ten Hag will understand that his position as United manager could become untenable if he fails to qualify for the Champions League with a top-five Premier League finish.
But there is still a chance of a second piece of silverware in as many years ahead of the Red Devils’ FA Cup semi-final against Coventry City at Wembley Stadium later this month.
According to the Telegraph, Brailsford has met most of United’s first-team squad to field questions and concerns about Ratcliffe’s investment and rebuild plan.
The former head of British Cycling is said to have impressed players with INEOS’ aspirations, sparking a sense of optimism in Ten Hag’s dressing room.
However, the Dutchman’s future reportedly wasn’t discussed in the conversations to avoid undermining his authority at the business end of the season.
The report adds that Brailsford didn’t ask United’s stars for their opinions on Ten Hag and his management style and that there were no suggestions that he would be replaced this summer.
It’s claimed that Brailsford laid out Ratcliffe and his new-look football structure’s short and long-term vision on their quest to restore a winning culture at Old Trafford.
The 60-year-old has been a regularly present figure around Carrington since Ratcliffe sealed his £1.3billion deal for a 27.7 per cent stake and control of football operations in February.
He is said to be among the first to arrive at the training base and the last to leave on a daily basis, emphasising his dedication to his role.
Brailsford has played a crucial role in United’s quick and efficient running since INEOS entered power. This summer, Omar Berrada will join the club from Manchester City as chief executive, replacing Richard Arnold.
That coup has been followed up by aggressive pursuits of Newcastle United’s Dan Ashworth and Southampton’s Jason Wilcox.
Ashworth looks set to replace John Murtough as sporting director at Old Trafford, while Wilcox has resigned from Southampton to become technical director.
Both may not be able to join until after the summer transfer window, though, as Newcastle and the Saints dig their heels in regarding compensation.
United’s rebuild under the INEOS banner will accelerate at the end of the season, and the players should now understand what is set to unfold.
