By Bellis Kweta
After a crushing defeat by West Ham in the Premier League on Sunday 27th October, 2024, Manchester United have decided to part ways with head coach Erik ten Hag, bringing an end to a turbulent tenure just over two years after his appointment. Ten Hag’s dismissal, confirmed by the club on Monday, followed a rocky season start that has left United in 14th place in the Premier League table. The team has struggled not only domestically but also in the Europa League, where they have failed to secure a win in their first three matches.
The club’s statement confirmed, “Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men’s first-team manager. Erik was appointed in April 2022 and led the club to two domestic trophies, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024. We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.” However, the gratitude does little to mask the sense of urgency that United’s leadership faces in turning around what has already become one of the club’s worst-ever season starts.
A Troubled Tenure with Glimpses of Promise
Erik ten Hag’s time with Manchester United has been one of contrasts. When he was appointed in 2022, there was significant hope that he could restore the club to its former glory. The initial successes came as he guided the team to Carabao Cup and FA Cup victories, but those accomplishments seemed a distant memory in the wake of recent struggles. The current season’s challenges have undermined the strides made, as United now face one of their most challenging positions in recent history.
The defeat to West Ham was the final straw for the board, particularly as it marked United’s fourth loss in just nine Premier League games. The Red Devils’ dismal record leaves them in an unfamiliar place in the lower half of the table. Many fans and experts view this as the breaking point, with INEOS, Manchester United’s part-owner, reportedly pressing for immediate change.
Poor Domestic and European Performance Adds Pressure
The season’s early Europa League results have been equally disappointing. United’s 1-1 draw with Fenerbahce, alongside frustrating performances against Twente and Porto, have added to the sense that the team lacks cohesion and strategic direction. With players struggling to find form and results failing to meet expectations, Ten Hag’s hold on the role became untenable.
Sources close to the club indicate that Ten Hag was nearly dismissed at the end of the previous season, as the club concluded the league in eighth position the worst league finish since 1990. United reportedly considered alternatives at the time, including Thomas Tuchel, before granting Ten Hag a one-year extension. Ironically, this extension now means that the club is liable to pay Ten Hag a compensation package rumored to be in the range of £7 million, a decision that could have been avoided if action had been taken sooner.
Who is Set To Replace Ten Hag?
The legendary Manchester United forward Ruud van Nistelrooy has been named interim head coach while the club searches for a long-term successor. His appointment, although temporary, has excited fans, who hope his familiarity with the club’s culture can provide stability. Van Nistelrooy will lead the team for their upcoming Carabao Cup match against Leicester City, a game that has now taken on greater significance as fans and players look to recalibrate under new leadership.
As the club braces for what could be a transformative period, there are questions regarding who will eventually take on the managerial role on a permanent basis.
