Erik ten Hag’s tenure as Manchester United manager came to an end after a disappointing start to the 2024 season, which saw the team languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League table. His time at the club, marked by both achievements and controversies, began with optimism but ultimately resulted in his dismissal.
Ten Hag was appointed in April 2022, taking over from interim manager Ralf Rangnick. He arrived with a strong reputation, having guided Ajax to the Champions League semifinals in 2019. The expectations were high as he signed a contract running until June 2025, with the possibility of an extension.
In his first season, Ten Hag managed to bring some silverware to Old Trafford. Manchester United won the Carabao Cup in February 2023, defeating Newcastle 2-0 in the final. This victory was seen as a significant achievement, as it marked the club’s first trophy in several years. By the end of the 2022-2023 season, United finished third in the Premier League, a respectable position that hinted at a potential revival.
However, Ten Hag’s management was not without its challenges. His relationship with club legend Cristiano Ronaldo became strained early on. In July 2022, he publicly criticized Ronaldo after the forward left a pre-season friendly early, calling his actions “unacceptable.” The manager’s decision to bench Ronaldo in a match against Manchester City in October 2022 further escalated tensions. Ronaldo refused to come on as a substitute during a subsequent game against Tottenham, leading to a suspension from the club.
The situation worsened when Ronaldo gave a controversial interview in November 2022, criticizing Ten Hag and the club’s ownership, which resulted in the club parting ways with the superstar shortly after. This marked the end of an era for United but also set a precedent for Ten Hag’s often contentious approach to player management.
In the summer of 2023, Ten Hag made significant moves in the transfer market, letting go of long-time goalkeeper David de Gea in favor of signing Andre Onana from Inter Milan. While Onana’s signing was seen as a fresh start, the decision to spend heavily on players like Casemiro and Antony drew mixed reactions. Casemiro, at £70 million, was expected to bolster the midfield but struggled to consistently deliver. Antony, signed for a hefty £85 million, faced criticism for his underwhelming performances, becoming a target for ridicule on social media.
Throughout the 2023-2024 season, Ten Hag’s management faced scrutiny as tensions with players like Jadon Sancho emerged. After excluding Sancho from a match against Arsenal for poor training habits, Sancho took to social media to accuse Ten Hag of making him a scapegoat. These public disputes contributed to an atmosphere of discord within the squad.
Despite the turmoil, Ten Hag’s position seemed secure after winning the FA Cup in May 2024, where United registered a surprising 2-1 victory over Manchester City. However, this success was short-lived, as the following season began poorly. United lost the FA Community Shield to Manchester City on penalties and faced heavy defeats to Liverpool and Tottenham, raising alarm bells among fans and management alike.
As results continued to deteriorate, pressure mounted on Ten Hag. The club’s failure to qualify for the UEFA Champions League was a major disappointment, especially given the investments made in the squad. By late October 2024, a loss to West Ham marked Ten Hag’s final game in charge, bringing an end to a turbulent managerial stint.
On October 28, 2024, Manchester United officially announced Ten Hag’s dismissal. The club’s decision was influenced by the need for immediate improvement and stability. In the wake of his departure, Ruud van Nistelrooy was appointed as interim manager, tasked with reviving the team’s fortunes.
Erik ten Hag’s time at Manchester United showcased both his tactical acumen and the difficulties inherent in managing a club with such high expectations. His tenure was a rollercoaster of highs and lows, leaving a legacy of significant moments and lessons for future management at Old Trafford.
