Erik ten Hag is SACKED as Manchester United manager after a disastrous start to the season

Manchester United have sacked manager Erik ten Hag after an abysmal start to the campaign as the Dutchman leaves the club after two-and-a-half years in charge.

The former Ajax boss has accumulated only 11 points after the first nine games of the Premier League season leaving the red half of Manchester in 14th position.

The final straw for the 54-year-old came in the capital on Sunday afternoon as West Ham United’s captain, Jarrod Bowen, sealed a 2-1 win which was the final nail in the coffin for the Manchester United hierarchy.

They are also winless in their first three Europa League group games where they find themselves in a disappointing 21st position in the standings.

Former Manchester United striker and current assistant manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy, will be temporarily in charge of the side as they look to find the perfect candidate to re-create the glory days of Sir Alex Ferguson.

Manchester United statement on Erik ten Hag’s sacking

Manchester United released the following statement on Monday morning stating: ‘Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men’s first-team manager.

‘We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.

‘Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team as interim head coach, supported by the current coaching team, whilst a permanent head coach is recruited.’

Van Nistelrooy’s first game in the hot seat comes against fellow Premier League side Leicester City in the last 16 of the League Cup at Old Trafford.

Ten Hag – who joined the club ahead of the 2022-23 term – did enjoy success during his reign at the Theatre of Dreams as the Dutchman won the 2022-23 League Cup in and the FA Cup last season, but his poor start of the campaign has cost him dearly.

It has been a constant struggle from August as they have stumbled out of the starting blocks in all competitions as spineless performances became the norm, week in, week out.

By Jack Bunclark