Manchester United have made the decision to part company with boss Erik ten Hag with immediate effect according to a statement on the club’s website.
The Premier League giants are fresh off the back of a humiliating defeat to struggling West Ham United confirming an unwanted record of just one win in their previous eight fixtures.
The Red Devils sit 14th in the table, having recorded their lowest ever Premier League finish last season, despite winning the FA Cup against rivals Manchester City.
Several candidates have been put forward for the vacant job with Ruud van Nistelrooy set to take temporary charge of the team.
Barcelona legend and former manager Xavi is amongst the favourites with reports suggesting that Omar Berada is currently holding talks with the free agent over the vacancy. Thomas Frank is also a contender.
Former Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel had been favourite but recently took over as manager of England Men’s National Team.
The statement reads:
“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.
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.”
After the summer started with the Manchester United board publicly pursuing replacements for the Dutchman before ultimately extending his contract, it felt like it was a case of when, not if the former Ajax man would be sacked. Despite huge investment in the team, the club has looked disjointed and lacking ideas for some time and after a significant time in the dugout the blame must ultimately fall at the feet of ten Hag.
That being said, the players, most of who are on huge wages and the decision makers must also take a huge responsibility for the downfall of the club.
Whilst opposition fans may laugh, a stumbling Manchester United is ultimately bad for the Premier League and English football. As one of the biggest brands in the world of sport, eyes are always on the club and it’s failure will be seen as an indictment on what used to be the jewel in the crown for the Premier League.