Erik ten Hag’s defiance over Manchester United’s stuttering start in the Europa League this season was at odds with club chiefs, it can now be revealed.
United, who are 21st in the new-look competition, were held to draws by Porto and Fenerbahce in their last two European fixtures despite leading in both games.
Speaking after his side collected a point in Turkey, Ten Hag, who was dismissed this morning, insisted the lowly two-point tally on the road was ‘a result’.
But club sources did not agree with the Dutchman with the failure to win any of their first three group-stage matches after taking the lead a factor in his sacking.
‘Point in Porto, point in Fenerbahce, that’s not bad, but of course we want to win,’ Ten Hag said. ‘We want to win every game. From two tough away games, Porto and Fenerbahce, we take two points, this is a result.’
Manchester United’s stuttering start in the Europa League was a factor in his sacking
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s patience ran out after United collapsed to a 2-1 defeat by West Ham
United have drawn their first three European fixtures and sit a lowly 21st in the table
Ten Hag’s departure has come just a day after United’s disappointing 2-1 defeat by West Ham left them 14th in the Premier League table.
Club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy, who was hired as part of Ten Hag’s refreshed backroom staff in the summer, will take over on an interim basis.
Sources are adamant Van Nistelrooy, 48, will only take the reins in the short term while United work on making a permanent appointment.
Significant pressure had mounted on Ten Hag ahead of the international break earlier this month, prompting United to hold an executive meeting led by Ratcliffe in London.
However, the leadership team opted to stick with the head coach.
But Ten Hag was informed of his firing this morning in a change of stance.
United have won just three of their opening nine Premier League and are seven points adrift of the top four.
Their Europa League campaign is also in the balance are three consecutive draws.
The club statement, released on United’s website shortly before midday, said: ‘Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men’s first-team manager.
Ruud van Nistelrooy, Ten Hag’s assistant, has been handed the reins on an interim basis
Ten Hag’s side won just three of their opening nine Premier League games and are 14th
‘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.
‘Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team as interim head coach, supported by the current coaching team, whilst a permanent head coach is recruited.’
