Ten Hag's departure from Manchester United was confirmed on Monday, marking the end of a challenging period for the Dutchman that included the club's worst ever Premier League finish and one of their most dismal ever starts to a season.

Ruud van Nistelrooy, Ten Hag's fellow countryman and assistant, will now step in as interim manager, while Sporting boss Ruben Amorim has been identified as the club's top choice for a permanent replacement.

It is understood United have made clear they are willing to pay his PS8.3million release clause and his appointment could be completed by the weekend.

Despite receiving unwavering support from new minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS, Ten Hag's team consistently underperformed throughout his tenure even though he won two trophies.

And it appears that three key players - Rashford, Casemiro and Antony - have particularly disappointed their former manager, who feels he should have got more from some senior figures in the dressing room.

The Daily Star reports that Ten Hag feels let down by the trio and that they played a role in his eventual dismissal.

Rashford, who only managed to score once this season in a 3-0 victory over Southampton, failed to make an impact in his first three league games and had a disappointing previous campaign with just seven league goals and three assists.

This was a stark contrast to the 17 goals (30 in all competitions) he scored during Ten Hag's first season.

Casemiro has not been immune to criticism and rumours have been swirling that he could make a switch to the Saudi Pro League next summer.

His less-than-stellar performance during the crushing defeat by Liverpool where he bore significant blame for two of the goals in a 3-0 loss was a low point. Manuel Ugarte was subsequently introduced to take his place on the pitch.

Critics argue that Ten Hag's spending spree of nearly PS600m on his desired team composition appears fruitless.

Bruno Fernandes too has faced criticism and disciplinary issues. Despite being named captain by Ten Hag, his recent performances have been lacklustre, culminating in two red cards although the first was later rescinded in clashes with Tottenham and Porto.

Following Ten Hag's departure, Fernandes took to social media, expressing his gratitude: "Thanks for everything, boss. I appreciate the trust and the moments we share together. I wish you all the best in the future.

"Even knowing the last period hasn't been great from all of us, I hope you fans can keep with you the good things the manager has done for our club."