Ten Hag sacked by Manchester United

Manchester United have sacked Erik ten Hag as manager with Ruud van Nistelrooy appointed as interim replacement.

Four defeats in nine Premier League games has led to United opting to make the change with the club 14th in the table.

He was appointed in April 2022 and led the club to two domestic trophies, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024.

However performances in the league have been deteriorating rapidly in the last 18 months.

A club statement read: "We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.

"Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team as interim head coach, supported by the current coaching team, whilst a permanent head coach is recruited."

Speculation over Ten Hag's future had regained intensity in recent weeks after the 54-year-old Dutchman remained in the role at the end of last season.

United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe kept faith with Ten Hag after United beat Manchester City to lift the FA Cup in May, but results this season led to his departure.

United indicated it was a unanimous and collective decision, albeit a difficult one to take, the PA news agency understands.

The club had wanted to give Ten Hag the chance to work within a new sporting structure set up over the summer, but results and performances have forced their hand.

It is understood the club’s hierarchy had not seen enough progress in Ten Hag’s side to believe they were on the right path to challenge again for the Premier League title.

Former United captain Gary Neville said Ten Hag paid the price for an "unacceptable" Premier League position.

Neville told Sky Sports: "The big shock for me is how bad they’ve been with the new signings that have come in.

"I felt as though they would have enough to be able to get a decent level of performance together after a smoother transfer window, and that Erik ten Hag would get a level of stability.

"The fact that they are 14th is unacceptable. You can’t be in 14th after nine or 10 games with the level of spend that’s occurred without being under significant pressure – and that’s what’s happened.

"I was hoping it would end differently. I think Manchester United fans were hoping that the manager would continue to keep his job and the faith shown in him in the summer would pay off. But it’s not been the case."

United captain Bruno Fernandes thanked Ten Hag for the "trust" the Dutchman had shown him at Old Trafford and the moments they shared together.

"Thanks for everything boss," Fernandes wrote on his Instagram account.

"I appreciate the trust and the moments we share together, I wish you all the best in the future.

"Even knowing the last period (hasn't) been great from all of us I hope you fans can keep with you the good things the manager (has) done for our club!