On October 28, 2024, Manchester United officially announced that their current manager, Erik ten Hag, has left the club.
Club statement: Erik ten Hag.#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 28, 2024
What were Ten Hag’s Accomplishments in Man United?
Ten Hag was appointed as manager in April 2022. During his time, he led the team to win the League Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024. Under Ten Hag’s management, Manchester United also set several records, including conceding three or more goals in three consecutive matches for the first time in 45 years, and allowing four goals in a single Champions League match for the first time in 29 years.
Ten Hag‘s departure was mainly due to his inability to improve the team’s overall performance, especially their poor position in the Premier League. In the 2022/23 season, Manchester United finished third in the Premier League and qualified for the Champions League.
Why United Chose This Moment to Sack Ten Hag?
This could be due to United‘s poor performances in the last two seasons.
In the 2023/24 season, the team ranked 8th, marking their lowest position in Premier League history, and finished bottom of their Champions League group. At the start of the 2024/25 season, after nine Premier League matches, they were in 14th place, having lost four games. Many viewed the recent 1-2 loss to West Ham United as the direct trigger for Ten Hag‘s departure. In order to sack Ten Hag, United were willing to pay around £13.5m in liquidated damages.
How Did the Fans React to the Firing?
This firing event has sparked wide discussion and controversy. Some fans believe Ten Hag was a good manager, achieving important victories, especially in cup competitions. On the other hand, many criticize the management for lacking patience and focusing too much on short-term results. Some fans even suggest that Ten Hag’s departure is linked to the loss against West Ham, hinting at a form of irony.
Manchester United stated that assistant coach Ruud van Nistelrooy will temporarily take charge of the team until they find a new permanent manager. Reports suggest that the current Barcelona manager, Xavi, is a potential candidate. Yet, he has expressed a desire to take a year off.
Fans have mixed feelings about the future Man United manager and the team’s direction. Some are cautiously optimistic, hoping for improvement, while others worry that the club will continue to face turmoil.
