Erik ten Hag has broken his silence on his Man Utd dismissal, penning an open letter to the club’s fans. The Dutchman was sacked on Monday after defeat to West Ham left the Red Devils languishing in 14th in the Premier League after nine matches.
It has been a horrid start to the season for Man Utd, and Ten Hag was a man under pressure even before the season got underway after his position was reviewed by United’s new INEOS hierarchy.
And after four defeats in his first nine league games of the new season, it was only a matter of time before Sir Jim Ratcliffe and co were to make the decision to let him go.
Ten Hag, who has been replaced by Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford, has now sent an emotional open letter to supporters.
He said in the letter: “Dear fans, Let me start by thanking you. Thank you for always being there for the club. Whether it was at a game far away or a tough match at Old Trafford, your support has been unshakeable.
“The atmosphere at Old Trafford has always been electrifying, thanks to you. I felt it many times. Also in away games, it gave the team and me an incredible feeling to hear the United chants taking over the opponents’ stadiums, whether the game was in England, Europe or during the summer tours.
“I always enjoyed meeting Manchester United fans throughout the world. Walking the streets and being able to chat with fans in England, Europe, Asia, Australia, the USA – you inspired me and radiated a strong sense of unity.
“That’s what makes United supporters so special. I want to thank you for giving me this feeling and for your support. I also want to thank the staff in every department of the club for their unwavering support in good times and bad.”
He then shared a regret of not being able to get the chance to win more silverware at Old Trafford: “We won two trophies – achievements that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Of course, my dream was to bring more trophies to the cabinet. Unfortunately, that dream has come to an end.
“I wish all Manchester United fans nothing but success, trophies and glory. Your support and the warmth I received from everyone at the club helped me feel at home. Thank you for this chapter in my life. Erik”.
Ten Hag’s in-bound replacement Amorim won’t move to Manchester until after the November international break. The Portuguese tactician has signed a contract until June 2027 and will take charge of his first match at Ipswich on November 24.
