Man United boss Ten Hag unsure on futures of two defenders

Manchester United return to action on Sunday when they travel to face Aston Villa. 

The Red Devils were victorious last time out, beating West Ham United 3-0 at Old Trafford.

They will arrive at Villa Park to face a Villans side that were beaten 3-0 by Chelsea in the FA Cup fourth round on Wednesday – a second successive home defeat for Unai Emery’s side.

United boss Erik ten Hag could rotate his squad for the trip to the Midlands, and ahead of the game the Dutchman has made an admission on the future of two experienced players.

When asked about the futures of centre-backs Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans, Ten Hag simply replied ‘I don’t know,” as reported by Fabrizio Romano. 

Varane, 30, joined the Red Devils from Spanish giants Real Madrid in 2021 and has since made 84 appearances for the club across all competitions.

Evans’ short-term contract is set to expire this summer

The Frenchman has primarily played an important role for United ever since arriving in Manchester, although he did briefly fall out of favour towards the end of last year.

Varane’s contract was initially thought to expire this summer, but it has since been reported that it does in fact run out in 2025.

Evans, meanwhile, returned to Old Trafford last summer after leaving former club Leicester City following their relegation from the top flight.

The Northern Irishman first departed United in 2015 to join West Bromwich Albion, having played 198 times for the club.

Since returning, the 36-year-old has provided cover for Ten Hag in defence, making 19 appearances so far this term.

The veteran defender initially started training with United last summer after departing the Foxes, but impressed Ten Hag and was therefore offered a 12-month deal that is set to expire at the end of the current campaign.