PL News: Ten Hag to stay at Manchester United
Manchester United are in discussions with Erik ten Hag about a new contract, having decided he will stay on as manager for next season.
Following their end-of-season review, United concluded that Ten Hag is the right person to lead them forward under the new regime headed by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Ten Hag, 54, is keen to remain at the club and has had positive discussions with United regarding their review of the season. After winning the FA Cup, he was left in limbo for two-and-a-half weeks as United considered whether to replace him. However, they felt it was important for the new ownership to conduct a thorough assessment.
While Ten Hag led United to their lowest-ever Premier League finish, in eighth place, and a group-stage exit from the Champions League, they also considered his achievement of securing two trophies in as many years, including a third-place finish in his debut campaign. Ten Hag attributed last season's struggles, which he described as "horrible," partly to an injury crisis. United agreed, believing they had the most injuries in the Premier League and accepted this as a significant mitigating factor, along with key players being absent.
The club was aware that many supporters wanted Ten Hag to stay, particularly impressed by the manner of their FA Cup final win over Manchester City.
FA Cup: Youngsters shine as United win the cup (eurosuperfootball.blogspot.com)
Ten Hag also impressed United with his dedication and commitment to developing young players. Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, who scored in the FA Cup final, were among the success stories of the season.
Ten Hag has one year remaining on his current contract, signed when he joined from Ajax in 2022. An extended deal could make him United’s longest-serving manager since Sir Alex Ferguson. Appointed by former CEO Richard Arnold and football director John Murtough, who have both since left the club, Ten Hag received a vote of confidence from the new regime deciding to continue with him. Let's explore some of the best reaction to this news.
United fans respond
INEOS finally come to the correct decision to keep Ten Hag!
— Stretford Paddock (@StretfordPaddck) June 11, 2024
If you win 2 trophies in 2 seasons, you deserve more time.
Keep the trophies coming Erik!#MUFC pic.twitter.com/qMHQ0YC5jJ
Liam, a Manchester United Season Ticket holder, posted on Facebook: "This is the right decision, as there are no clear alternatives at the moment, and winning two trophies in two seasons is commendable given the injuries to key players and the ongoing issues with ownership. However, he needs to build a team capable of competing with the best and having a realistic chance of winning the Premier League within the next two years."
