Manchester United has exercised a one-year extension option in Erik ten Hag’s contract, securing his stay at the club until 2026. Originally, Ten Hag’s contract, signed upon his appointment in 2022, was set to expire in 2025. Since joining from Ajax, the Dutch manager has led United to two trophies within two years.
Reflecting on his tenure, the 54-year-old expressed his satisfaction with the new agreement. “I am delighted to have reached this agreement with the club and continue our collaboration,” he said. Ten Hag acknowledged the progress made since his arrival, highlighted by the two trophies won. However, he emphasized the necessity of continued effort, stating, “We must also recognize that there is still a significant amount of work ahead.”
Mixed results and leadership changes
During Ten Hag’s first season, Manchester United finished third in the Premier League, ending a six-year trophy drought with a Carabao Cup victory against Newcastle. However, the second season proved more challenging as the team finished eighth in the Premier League and failed to advance past the Champions League group stages.
A crucial 2-1 win over Manchester City in the FA Cup final in May played a pivotal role in Ten Hag retaining his position. Following this victory, the club, under the new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, conducted a comprehensive review of the season’s performance. Although United explored potential replacements for Ten Hag, the review concluded that he deserved to continue under an enhanced organizational structure.
Since Ratcliffe’s investment in December, which secured him a 27.7% stake in the club, the board has seen significant changes. Key appointments include Jason Wilcox, Omar Berrada, Sir Dave Brailsford, and Dan Ashworth in senior roles. Ashworth, the sporting director, expressed optimism about the future, highlighting the capability of the current players and staff to compete at the highest level consistently. He emphasized the importance of the newly strengthened football leadership working closely with Ten Hag to achieve the club’s goals.
Coaching staff revamp
Discussions are ongoing to restructure Ten Hag’s backroom team. Former United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, who managed PSV Eindhoven from 2022 to 2023, is anticipated to join Old Trafford as part of the revamped coaching team. Additionally, Go Ahead Eagles manager Rene Hake is expected to be part of this new set-up.
As Manchester United looks forward to the future, the collaboration between the strengthened leadership team and Erik ten Hag aims to build on the progress made and achieve sustained success at the top level of football.
