United dismiss Ten Hag after poor start; Van Nistelrooy named interim boss
Manchester United parted ways with manager Erik ten Hag on Monday following a disappointing start to the season. Former United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy has been appointed interim manager as the club begins its search for a new full-time boss.
United’s 1-0 defeat to West Ham on Sunday marked their fourth league loss in nine matches, dropping them to 14th place. Ten Hag’s side has won just one of its last eight matches across all competitions and currently sits 21st out of 36 teams in the Europa League after three consecutive draws.
“Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men’s first-team manager,” the club stated, expressing gratitude for his contributions, including winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024.
Van Nistelrooy, who returned to United as Ten Hag’s assistant in July, now takes charge in the interim role. Ten Hag’s position became increasingly uncertain after United’s co-owner Jim Ratcliffe conducted an internal review last season but retained him, granting a contract extension through 2026 following United’s FA Cup win over Manchester City in May.
Despite his successes, United’s recent struggles—including defeats to Liverpool and Tottenham—left the 54-year-old Dutchman under pressure, with former England manager Gareth Southgate and ex-Barcelona boss Xavi rumored as potential replacements.
(Source: AFP)
