Manchester United have parted ways with manager Erik ten Hag, a decision announced on Monday that was reportedly unanimous. The club currently sits 14th in the Premier League after nine games, with no indication of a return to past glories. Assistant manager and former striker Ruud van Nistelrooy will step in as interim manager while the club searches for a permanent replacement.
Ten Hag, appointed in April 2022, led United to two domestic trophies—the League Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024. However, his position was under scrutiny for much of last season as the team finished eighth in the Premier League, their worst-ever performance, and exited the Champions League in the group stage. This season's dismal start, with only four wins in 14 games across all competitions, further intensified the pressure.
United's statement highlighted their poor start, noting they have secured just 11 points from nine Premier League matches, far from their target of a fourth-place finish. The club's billionaire owner, INEOS chairman Jim Ratcliffe, had initially maintained continuity by retaining Ten Hag during a period of transition. However, the lack of progress and momentum led to this decision.
Despite significant investment of over £600 million in new players since Ten Hag's appointment, the team's performance has not improved. Sunday's 2-1 loss to West Ham United, where United failed to capitalize on numerous opportunities, fueled speculation about Ten Hag's future. The manager had previously pointed to injuries as a reason for the team's poor form, but the club's board ultimately decided a change was necessary.
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