Ten Hag stays at United: What changes will he implement now?

In a surprising turn of events, Manchester United has extended the contract of manager, Erik ten Hag, until June 2026. United finished eighth in an underwhelming 2023-24 Premier League season. But despite that, Ten Hag's success in securing two significant trophies has earned him a longer tenure at Old Trafford. The 54-year-old's position as Manchester […] In a surprising turn of events, Manchester United has extended the contract of manager, Erik ten Hag, until June 2026. United finished eighth in an underwhelming 2023-24 Premier League season. But despite that, Ten Hag‘s success in securing two significant trophies has earned him a longer tenure at Old Trafford. The 54-year-old’s position as Manchester United‘s manager was under intense scrutiny following a disappointing Premier League campaign. Their eighth-place finish left many questioning the Dutchman’s future at the club. Speculation was rife, with names like England manager Gareth Southgate and outgoing Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel heavily linked to the job. But the Red Devils won the FA Cup under Ten Hag’s leadership, despite skepticism over his term; they defeated Manchester City in the final. This triumph also guaranteed the club’s 13th FA Cup and UEFA Europa League berths. All things considered, these crucial accomplishments saved Ten Hag’s employment and contract extension. Erik ten Hag embraces challenge associated with contract extension Reflecting on his contract extension, Erik ten Hag expressed his satisfaction and outlined his vision for the future. “I am very pleased to have reached an agreement with the club to continue working together”, he said. “Looking back at the past two years, we can reflect with pride on two trophies and many examples of progression from where we were when I joined.” The 54-year-old former center-back emphasized the ongoing challenges and the hard work required to meet the high expectations at Manchester United. He stressed the importance of striving for English and European titles, underlining the club’s ambitions. The new sports director, Dan Ashworth, had an impact on the decision to renew the Dutchman’s contract. Ashworth, who joined United following negotiations with Newcastle, highlighted Ten Hag’s track record of success. “With two trophies in the past two seasons, Erik has reinforced his record as one of the most consistently successful coaches in European football”, Ashworth stated. He acknowledged areas for improvement but expressed confidence in Ten Hag’s ability to drive the club forward. Changes in the coaching staff As part of the renewal process, discussions are ongoing about revamping Ten Hag’s backroom staff. Notable names like Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake are set to join the coaching team at Old Trafford. Van Nistelrooy, a fan favorite from his playing days at United, brings managerial experience from his tenure at PSV Eindhoven. Hake, currently the head coach of Go Ahead Eagles in the Eredivisie, also has a wealth of coaching experience. The potential reshuffle includes the possible departure of Mitchell van der Gaag, ten Hag’s assistant, who might seek a managerial role elsewhere. This restructuring aims to strengthen United’s coaching program and ensure a cohesive approach to achieving the club’s objectives. United’s strategy involves a recalibration of roles within the rest of the coaching staff. Steve McClaren, who returned to the club in 2022, and Darren Fletcher, involved with the first team since 2021, will see adjustments to their responsibilities. Benni McCarthy’s position as a first-team coach, appointed in June 2022, also faces uncertainty amidst these changes. These adjustments reflect Ten Hag’s vision of building a robust and dynamic coaching team capable of driving the club to new heights. The appointments of Van Nistelrooy and Hake are expected to bring fresh perspectives and enhance the club’s performance. PHOTOS: IMAGO