Erik ten Hag breaks silence after Man Utd sacking

Cameron Smith

• Updated: 1 Nov 2024 20:25 GMT
• 3 min read

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Erik ten Hag has written a public letter to Manchester United fans following his sacking earlier this week.

The Dutchman was fired following a 2-1 defeat to West Ham United on Sunday, with the Red Devils currently 14th in the Premier League table.

Ten Hag signed a contract extension at Old Trafford in July, but INEOS have opted to part ways with the former Ajax boss after a disappointing start to the 2024-25 campaign.

READ MORE: How Man Utd will line up under Ruben Amorim

Man Utd only achieved four victories in 14 games under Ten Hag’s reign during the opening few months of the new season, and despite retaining faith in the Dutchman during the October international, the club decided to sack Ten Hag on Monday.

Ruben Amorim has already been appointed as the next permanent Man Utd manager, although he will remain at Sporting CP until 11 November.

READ MORE: Winners and losers of Ruben Amorim joining Man Utd

What has Erik ten Hag said?

Ten Hag bid farewell to Man Utd supporters in a letter published on SEG’s social media.

“Dear fans,” he wrote. "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.”

Ten Hag continued: “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.

“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,” he added.

“Thank you for this chapter in my life. Erik.”