Manchester United’s Erik Ten Hag Retains Manager Role After Board Review

by , 13 June 2024

Erik Ten Hag will continue as Manchester United’s manager after a comprehensive review by the club’s board. Following a season of ups and downs, the board has decided to back Ten Hag, ensuring stability and continuity at Old Trafford. This decision allows United to focus on building for the future with Ten Hag at the helm.

A large football stadium filled with fans displaying Manchester United's iconic red and yellow colors. The stadium features a massive screen prominently displaying the Manchester United logo. Players are visible on the pitch, preparing for a match under bright stadium lights.

Manchester United Manager Review Process and Outcomes

Manchester United’s board initiated a comprehensive review immediately following the FA Cup final. The review aimed to assess the performance and future prospects of Erik ten Hag, who had faced considerable speculation about his future. The process was thorough, taking into account the team’s performance, injury challenges, and Ten Hag’s handling of off-field issues. Despite an inconsistent season, the board concluded that Ten Hag’s leadership remained crucial for the club’s stability.

During the review, it was noted that United’s victory over Manchester City in the FA Cup final significantly influenced the board’s decision. This victory, achieved against a backdrop of intense scrutiny, showcased Ten Hag’s ability to inspire and manage the team under pressure. The review also highlighted the club’s highest injury record in the Premier League era, a factor often cited by Ten Hag in explaining some of the team’s underwhelming performances.

The club’s hierarchy engaged in “constructive conversations” with Ten Hag regarding the review’s outcome. These discussions were aimed at ensuring alignment on future goals and expectations. The board considered all eventualities but ultimately favoured retaining Ten Hag, recognising his potential to thrive under a restructured sporting environment. This decision reflects a commitment to stability and a long-term vision for the club’s development.

Former Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel and other high-profile managers were considered during the review. However, discussions with candidates like Mauricio Pochettino and Graham Potter did not progress significantly. The club’s new co-owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, emphasised the importance of creating an environment conducive to managerial success. This perspective was instrumental in the decision to retain Ten Hag, as it underscored the need for systemic changes rather than a managerial overhaul.

As the review concluded, Manchester United confirmed that Erik ten Hag would remain as the manager. This decision allows the club to focus on rebuilding and addressing key issues in the transfer market. Ten Hag, who expressed delight at the outcome, is now poised to lead the team into the new season with renewed support from the club’s board and fans alike.

Erik Ten Hag’s Career

Erik ten Hag’s journey in football management began after a respectable playing career primarily as a centre-back. He played for several Dutch clubs, including Twente, De Graafschap, RKC Waalwijk, and Utrecht. Ten Hag’s notable achievements as a player include winning the Eerste Divisie with De Graafschap and the KNVB Cup with Twente. After retiring from playing in 2002, he transitioned into coaching, starting with roles in youth development and as an assistant manager.

Ten Hag’s first significant managerial role came in 2012 when he was appointed as the head coach of Go Ahead Eagles in the Eerste Divisie. His immediate impact led the team to promotion to the Eredivisie in his debut season. This success caught the attention of Bayern Munich, and in 2013, he was appointed to manage Bayern Munich II. Under his leadership, the team achieved promotion to the Regionalliga Bayern, demonstrating his capability to develop and inspire young talent.

In 2015, Ten Hag returned to the Netherlands to take charge of Utrecht, where he served as both sporting director and head coach. Significant achievements, including a fifth-place league finish and qualification for the Europa League playoffs, marked his tenure at Utrecht. His success at Utrecht paved the way for his appointment as the head coach of Ajax in December 2017.

At Ajax, Ten Hag enjoyed tremendous success, winning three Eredivisie titles, two KNVB Cups, and leading the team to the semi-finals of the 2018-19 UEFA Champions League, where they famously defeated Real Madrid and Juventus.

Ten Hag’s impressive track record at Ajax led to his appointment as Manchester United’s manager in April 2022. His tenure at Old Trafford has been a mix of challenges and achievements. In his first season, he led United to third place in the Premier League and secured the EFL Cup. Despite numerous injuries and off-field issues, ten Hag’s leadership and tactical acumen have been praised.

His ability to integrate new signings and develop young talents like Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo has been particularly noted.

As he enters another season with United, Ten Hag remains focused on building a competitive team capable of challenging for major honours.

Future Plans and Prospects

With Erik ten Hag confirmed to stay as Manchester United’s manager, the club is now focused on future plans and prospects. Central to these plans is the potential appointment of Dan Ashworth as the new sporting director. Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who took charge of football operations after acquiring a 27.7% stake in United, has been keen on bringing Ashworth to Old Trafford. However, negotiations with Newcastle United have proven to be challenging.

Newcastle placed Ashworth on gardening leave in February, following United’s interest. Despite Ratcliffe’s efforts, Newcastle’s demands for compensation have been a sticking point. Initially asking for £20 million, United has deemed Newcastle’s valuation excessive. A final offer of £3 million was also rejected, leaving Ashworth in a state of limbo. The uncertainty has led to frustration within United’s hierarchy, who are eager to have Ashworth in place to support Ten Hag’s plans for the team.

Reports suggest that Ashworth may seek arbitration to resolve his situation. He could argue that Newcastle effectively sacked him, which might facilitate a move to United. Meanwhile, Ashworth has been linked with other clubs, including Wolves, further complicating his potential transfer. Despite these challenges, United remains hopeful that an agreement can be reached, allowing Ashworth to join and contribute to the club’s rebuilding efforts ahead of the 2024/25 season.

The appointment of a new sporting director is seen as crucial for Manchester United’s future. With Ten Hag’s position secured, the focus now shifts to enhancing the squad and improving overall team performance. Ratcliffe’s vision includes creating a more supportive environment for the manager and addressing the issues that have hindered success in recent years. As the club navigates these complexities, the goal remains clear: to restore Manchester United to its former glory and compete at the highest levels of football.

Premier League – 2024/25 Odds

The betting odds for the 2024/2025 Premier League season have been released, with Manchester City leading the pack at 11/10. Arsenal is the second favourite with odds of 15/8, while Liverpool is listed at 7/1. Chelsea comes in at 20/1, reflecting a more distant chance of winning the title.

Manchester United, despite confirming Erik ten Hag’s continuation as manager, is placed at 25/1 alongside Newcastle United. This reflects some scepticism among bookmakers about United’s immediate prospects, although Ten Hag’s retention could stabilise the team and potentially improve their standing as the season progresses. The impact of Ten Hag’s confirmation on United’s odds appears modest, indicating that bookmakers are waiting to see tangible improvements on the pitch before adjusting their expectations.

Other teams with longer odds include Tottenham Hotspur at 33/1 and Aston Villa at 50/1. Brighton And Hove Albion are listed at 150/1, while West Ham United’s odds stand at 250/1. Further down the list, Crystal Palace has odds of 300/1, and AFC Bournemouth is at 350/1. Brentford, Fulham, and Wolverhampton Wanderers are all at 500/1.

Odds on Winning the Premier League 2024/25
Team Name Odds
Manchester City 11/10
Arsenal 15/8
Liverpool 7/1
Chelsea 20/1
Manchester United 25/1
Newcastle United 25/1
Tottenham Hotspur 33/1
Aston Villa 50/1
Brighton And Hove Albion 150/1
West Ham United 250/1
Crystal Palace 300/1
AFC Bournemouth 350/1
Brentford 500/1
Fulham 500/1
Wolverhampton Wanderers 500/1
Everton 1000/1
Ipswich Town 1000/1
Leicester City 1000/1
Nottingham Forest 1000/1
Southampton 1000/1

At the bottom end of the odds, Everton, Ipswich Town, Leicester City, Nottingham Forest, and Southampton are all at 1000/1. These odds reflect these teams’ significant challenges in competing for the Premier League title. As the season approaches, these odds will likely shift based on team performances, transfers, and other developments.

For now, Manchester City remains the clear favourite when Premier League betting, but the dynamic nature of the Premier League ensures that surprises and upsets are always possible.

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