Erik ten Hag has penned a heartfelt message to Manchester United supporters just days after being sacked as the club’s manager.
The Dutchman was relieved of his duties on Monday after United slumped to their worst-ever start to a Premier League season, with just three wins from their first nine games.
The decision brought an end to his two-year spell at Old Trafford, during which time he led the club to success in both the FA and EFL Cups.
In his first message since the sacking, Ten Hag addressed United’s fan base, thanked his backroom staff, and insisted he wishes the club nothing but success going forward.
It read: ‘Dear fans, Let me start by thanking you. 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.
Erik ten Hag has broken his silence since being sacked as Manchester United manager
Dutchman was handed his marching orders after United’s 2-1 defeat to West Ham last weekend
Ten Hag paid tribute to United’s supporters in his farewell message, and insisted he wishes the club success in the future
‘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.’
United won both the EFL Cup and the FA Cup during his two-year stint at Old Trafford
The club have appointed Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim as Ten Hag’s successor
On the same day Ten Hag received the news of his sacking, club chief executive Omar Berrada travelled to Portugal to finalise arrangements for Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim to serve as his successor.
In the meantime, Ruud van Nistelrooy has taken temporary charge of his former club, and will lead United when they play host to Chelsea on Sunday.
