Seunfunmi Joshua
After yet another tough loss yesterday, this time a 2-1 defeat to West Ham in the premier league, Manchester United has made the decisive move to part ways with Erik ten Hag. Hailed as a tactical visionary upon his arrival, ten Hag faced a challenging tenure marked by inconsistent form and elusive results that ultimately fell short of fans’ and management’s high expectations. His departure signals a new chapter for United as they search, once more, for the leader who can reignite the club’s competitive spirit and restore their standing in English football.
In an official statement, the club said, “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.”
Former United star Ruud van Nistelrooy will step in as interim head coach, working with the current coaching team until a permanent replacement is appointed.
From breaking trophy droughts to suffering historic losses, here’s a look at his top achievements and setbacks during his Old Trafford reign.
- Ending the Trophy Drought
Ten Hag led United to victory in the EFL Cup in February 2023, marking the club’s first trophy in six years.
- Securing Champions League Return
United finished third in the 2022-23 Premier League season, ensuring a return to the Champions League.
- Leading United To An FA Cup Triumph
In the 2022-23 season, United reached the FA Cup final for the first time since 2018, facing rivals Manchester City and won.
- Lowest Scoring Start Since 1992
Early in Ten Hag’s management, Manchester United experienced one of their lowest-scoring starts in recent history, reflecting offensive struggles, even with major signings
- Worst Start to a Season in Decades
The 2023-24 season began poorly, with United accumulating only nine points in their first seven games. This is United’s lowest points tally since 1989.
- Back-to-Back Heavy Defeats at Old Trafford
United suffered consecutive losses of three or more goals at Old Trafford, a first since the 1960s.
- Champions League Struggles
For the first time in club history, United lost their opening two group games in the Champions League and conceded a record seven goals across these matches.
- Home Defeat to Galatasaray
United’s Champions League loss to Galatasaray marked the Turkish side’s first-ever win on English soil.
- High Defensive Vulnerability
Under Ten Hag, United conceded three or more goals in 23 separate games, a significant number for a club typically known for its defensive strength.
- Historic Poor Finish in 2023-24
United was on track to finish outside the top eight, a potentially historic low for the club in the Premier League era.
Final Thoughts
Erik Ten Hag’s time at Manchester United is defined by significant achievements as well as record-setting challenges. From trophies and European qualifications to historic setbacks, his legacy at Old Trafford remains a mixed chapter.
