There is going to be far less room for error for Erik ten Hag next season.

Manchester United have extended his stay until 2026, though the blunt reality is that he is on the same deal as before and not the flash new contract many had hoped he would be. While some supporters might say it is merely semantics, there are a number of key differences as a result of it.

He is still the manager rather than the head coach and he still has a huge say in transfer issues, but crucially, he is still effectively under review regarding his long-term suitability to the role.

Last month, Sir Jim Ratcliffe admitted Ten Hag wasn't the biggest problem at the club, but with a revamped football department above him, he will become a lot more culpable for any issues on the pitch.

The teething issues of the new set-up should cut Ten Hag some slack if United experience a difficult start to the new campaign, but once key figures have found their feet, there will be much clearer guidance on who is directly responsible for different failures should they arise. If the style of play isn't right, it'll fall on Jason Wilcox. If the recruitment is poor, Dan Ashworth will face scrutiny. If United's level of performance and results don't suffice, it'll all be on Ten Hag.

Another key difference next season will be the refreshed coaching set up, in which the manager's influence has been strong. Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake are both expected to join the club on his recommendation, while goalkeeper coach Jelle ten Rouwelaar is also set to move to Old Trafford. These appointments are arguably a stronger show of faith in the manager than any new contract would be, as they clearly highlight the trust they have in him and his ability to lead the club going forward.

The other uncomfortable truth is they add even more pressure on him too. If for whatever reason there were any issues with the coaching department going forward, then it would also be on him rather than the club's hierarchy. Last season, a group of players believed the Dutchman was demanding too much from his squad in training and was also partly to blame for the club's injury crisis. A repeat of that next season would leave him with far less room to hide.

A new contract doesn't save Ten Hag from the same old scrutiny. If anything, he now faces even more.