Erik ten Hag linked with stunning instant return to football with European giant after Manchester United sacking

Erik ten Hag has been linked with a stunning return to football management with a European giant just a matter of weeks after he was sacked by Manchester United.

Erik ten Hag’s time as Manchester United manager concluded on October 28, following a tough spell that left United in 14th place in the Premier League. His departure came after a loss to West Ham and marked the end of a tenure that began with high expectations but ultimately delivered mixed results. In his first season, Ten Hag led United to a third-place finish and secured Champions League qualification, along with winning the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup with a notable victory over Manchester City. However, United’s performance slipped last season, ending at a disappointing eighth place, the club’s lowest Premier League finish ever.

Although his contract was extended by one year due to a clause activated in the summer, the recent takeover by Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS didn’t lead to a new deal, indicating uncertainty about his role. With Ruben Amorim from Sporting now at the helm, United is looking to reset under new leadership. During the transitional period between Ten Hag’s departure and Amorim’s arrival, club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy served as interim manager, managing an impressive three wins and one draw in four games. However, van Nistelrooy has confirmed he will not remain part of Amorim’s staff.

Now a free agent, Ten Hag is reportedly being selective about his next opportunity. Although initially linked with the head coach vacancy at Roma, he ultimately declined the role, not wanting to join a club facing challenges like their current 12th-place position in Serie A, significantly trailing league leaders Napoli. As he considers his next move, Ten Hag’s future remains an intriguing prospect, with the Dutchman likely to weigh his options carefully to find the right fit for his managerial style and career ambitions.