Manchester United have confirmed that Erik ten Hag has been appointed as the club’s next permanent manager.
Ten Hag will leave his role at Ajax to take charge of the Red Devils from next season, signing a deal until 2025 with the option for a further season.
The Dutchman emerged as an early frontrunner for the role after impressing during his reign at Ajax, leading the side to two Eredivisie titles and the semi-finals of the Champions League in 2018/19.
His rebuilding of the team has also won admirers from the Premier League, having dealt with the loss of key figures whilst ensuring Ajax remain competitive both domestically and in Europe.
Ten Hag has described the opportunity as a ‘great honour’ and in a statement on the club’s official website spoke of his excitement at the challenge ahead at Old Trafford.
“It is a great honour to be appointed manager of Manchester United and I am hugely excited by the challenge ahead,” Ten Hag said.
“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.”
United’s Football Director, John Murtough, said Ten Hag’s ‘long-term vision’ for the club made him the ideal candidate to succeed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
“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,” Murtough said, as per the club’s official website.
“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.”
