Manchester United has parted ways with manager Erik ten Hag after a disappointing 2-1 loss to West Ham United in the Premier League. The decision was made public by the club on Monday, following a match that ended with a stoppage-time penalty from Jarrod Bowen, leaving Manchester United languishing in 14th place in the league standings with a mere three victories from their first nine games.
The sacking comes on the heels of a tumultuous season where Ten Hag’s future was in jeopardy after an underwhelming eighth-place finish the previous year. However, a dramatic victory over Manchester City in the FA Cup final had temporarily secured his position, alongside a contract extension until 2026. His tenure at Old Trafford also saw the club lift the Carabao Cup in 2023, marking his second trophy with the team.
In a statement, Manchester United expressed gratitude for Ten Hag’s contributions, “We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.”
Stepping into the role of interim head coach is former United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy. Van Nistelrooy, who has been appointed in October 2024, will be supported by the existing coaching staff as the club begins its search for a permanent replacement.
This managerial change is the latest in a series of transitions for Manchester United, with the club having seen a revolving door of managers post the illustrious era of Sir Alex Ferguson. Van Nistelrooy’s appointment as interim manager marks a return for him to Old Trafford, where he once scored prolifically, adding an element of nostalgia to the current scenario.
As Manchester United looks forward to stabilizing its position in the league and navigating the upcoming matches, all eyes will be on Van Nistelrooy to see how he manages the team during this transition period.
Last 10 Coaches of Manchester United:
- Ruud van Nistelrooy – Appointed in October 2024.
- Erik ten Hag – July 1, 2022, to October 2024.
- Ralf Rangnick – Interim manager from December 3, 2021, to June 30, 2022.
- Michael Carrick – Caretaker manager from November 21, 2021, to December 2, 2021.
- Ole Gunnar Solskjær – March 28, 2019, to November 21, 2021.
- José Mourinho – July 1, 2016, to December 18, 2018.
- Louis van Gaal – July 1, 2014, to May 22, 2016.
- David Moyes – June 1, 2013, to April 22, 2014.
- Sir Alex Ferguson – Managed Manchester United from November 6, 1986, to May 19, 2013, but for this list, we consider his last period before retirement.
- Ryan Giggs – Served as interim manager for one game after Ferguson retired, from May 19, 2013, to June 1, 2013.