CONFIRMED: The true cost of sacking Ten Hag

Jacque Talbot

• Updated: 28 Nov 2024 08:12 GMT
• 4 min read

Manchester United had to fork out a huge sum to sack Erik ten Hag, it has been revealed.

The Dutchman was relieved of his duties following a 2-1 defeat to West Ham United on October 27, a result which left the Red Devils 14th in the Premier League table.

Ten Hag signed a contract extension at Old Trafford in July after winning the FA Cup, but Ineos decided that they had seen enough and they sacked him.

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United managed just four wins in 14 games under Ten Hag during the opening few months of the 2024/25 season, which followed an abysmal season the term prior.

His firing has cost United a fair bit of money, according to journalist Ben Jacobs. The GiveMeSport reporter posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Wednesday: "Erik ten Hag's departure cost Manchester United £10.4m, including compensation for other departing staff members.

"Ruben Amorim and his staff cost #MUFC £11m, according to Manchester United's latest financial report."

Ruben Amorim was appointed as the next permanent head coach shortly after and he left Sporting CP, the club had been at for over four years, and joined up at Carrington on November 11.

Ten Hag's statement

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.”