Erik ten Hag breaks silence after Manchester United sacking as he sends heartfelt message to fans

Erik ten Hag has thanked Manchester United fans for their ‘unshakable’ support following his dismissal as manager earlier this week.

The Dutchman was relieved of his duties on Monday following a dreadful start to the season which sees United sitting in 14th place in the table after nine games. Ruud van Nistelrooy took charge of the team in the midweek win over Leicester City and will also be in dugout for the next three matches before Ruben Amorim begins his premiership at Old Trafford during the November international break.

Hours after that appointment was confirmed on Friday, Ten Hag issued his first statement since being sacked. Via his agency, SEG, the 54-year-old paid credit to the United fans but notably made minimal reference to the club and didn’t mention the players at all.

“Dear fans, let me start by thanking you,” he wrote. “Thank you for always being there for the club. Whether it was at a game far away or a tough match at Old Trafford, your support has been unshakeable. 

“The atmosphere at Old Trafford has always been electrifying, thanks to you. I felt it many times. Also in away games, it gave the team and me an incredible feeling to hear the United chants taking over the opponents stadiums, whether the game was in England. Europe or during the summer tours.

“I always enjoyed meeting Manchester United fans throughout the world. Walking the streets and being able to chat with fans in England, Europe, Asia, Australia, the USA - you inspired me and radiated a strong sense of unity. That's what makes United supporters so special.

“I want to thank you for giving me this feeling and for your support. I also want to thank the staff in every department of the club for their unwavering support in good times and bad.

“We won two trophies - achievements that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Of course, my dream was to bring more trophies to the cabinet. Unfortunately, that dream has come to an end. 

“I wish all Manchester United fans nothing but success, trophies and glory. Your support and the warmth I received from everyone at the club helped me feel at home. Thank you for this chapter in my life.”

Ten Hag led United to third place in his first season in charge and also won the Carabao Cup. But things began to sour in his second campaign, where United finished in eighth - their lowest-ever finish in the Premier League era.

An FA Cup triumph in May saw Ten Hag limp on into a third season, but a disappointing start to 2024/25 meant Ineos felt they had no option but to act decisively this week.