Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has revealed that his summer holiday was interrupted by the club’s management, who flew out to inform him that they wanted him to stay in charge.
The Dutchman’s future had been uncertain before he guided United to victory in the FA Cup final, but the club has decided to retain him.
“The club management came to me while I was on holiday in Ibiza,” Ten Hag said in an interview with Dutch TV channel NOS. “They suddenly showed up on my doorstep and told me they wanted to continue with me.”
Despite finishing eighth last season, their lowest Premier League position in the club’s history, United’s new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe was reported to have spoken to former Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel. However, the club ultimately chose to stick with Ten Hag.
“Manchester United have told me that they spoke with Tuchel, but they eventually came to the conclusion that they already have the best manager,” Ten Hag added.
“Ineos took their time. They are new in football, it’s normal to reflect on the season. It’s no secret that they talked with multiple candidates.”
Ten Hag’s debut season with Manchester United saw the club finish third in the Premier League, reach the finals of the Carabao Cup and FA Cup, and win the EFL Cup in 2023.
While the United board has expressed their support for Ten Hag, the manager confirmed that negotiations for a new contract are still ongoing.
“Manchester United and I still have to find an agreement for the new contract. This isn’t easily done – we are still going to have to talk about this,” he said.