Manchester United

Manchester United

Premier League • England

Ten Hag gives determined first claim as Man Utd boss as deal confirmed with Murtough explanation

Erik ten Hag new Manchester United manager

Manchester United have officially confirmed that Erik ten Hag will be their manager from the start of the new season, on a three-year contract.

The Red Devils have been looking for a new permanent manager since sacking Ole Gunnar Solskjaer earlier in the season. Ten Hag was soon identified as their preferred candidate to take the reins from interim boss Ralf Rangnick in the summer.

Now, they have got the deal over the line to take him from Ajax ahead of the 2022-23 campaign. In a club statement, they have confirmed the Dutchman will be their manager on a contract until 2025, with the option of a further year.

His Manchester United tenure will officially begin after he finalises the visa process – and his commitments with Ajax end. He will be hoping to close out his reign there with an Eredivisie title.

Then, he will have the big task of getting Manchester United back where they belong in the Premier League. The club have struggled for elite success in the years since Sir Alex Ferguson retired. Thus, they will be hoping to have got it right this time.

For Ten Hag, it will be his first taste of Premier League management, at the age of 52.

Speaking for the first time since confirmation of his upcoming appointment, he said he is honoured to have the responsibility.

He told the club website: “It is a great honour to be appointed manager of Manchester United and I am hugely excited by the challenge ahead.

Erik Ten Hag to be announced and has no problem ruining Ajax team

Erik Ten Hag to be announced and has no problem ruining Ajax team

Erik Ten Hag will become Manchester United manager and wants to sign Ajax winger Antony as his first signing

“I know the history of this great club and the passion of the fans, and I am absolutely determined to develop a team capable of delivering the success they deserve.

“It will be difficult to leave Ajax after these incredible years, and I can assure our fans of my complete commitment and focus on bringing this season to a successful conclusion before I move to Manchester United.”

Murtough explains Ten Hag appeal

After that, he will begin collaborating on Man Utd’s plans to improve for next season.

Man Utd’s football director John Murtough has revealed he has been impressed by the “long-term vision” Ten Hag has for the club.

Murtough added: “During the past four years at Ajax, Erik has proved himself to be one of the most exciting and successful coaches in Europe, renowned for his team’s attractive, attacking football and commitment to youth.

“In our conversations with Erik leading up to this appointment, we were deeply impressed with his long-term vision for returning Manchester United to the level we want to be competing at, and his drive and determination to achieve that.

“We wish Erik the best of luck as he focuses on achieving a successful end to the season at Ajax and look forward to welcoming him to Manchester United this summer.”

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