Foot/ Premier League: Manchester United parts ways with Erik ten Hag amidst season struggles; Van Nistelrooy appointed interim Manager

Erik ten Hag’s tenure as Manchester United manager has come to an end following the team’s 2-1 defeat to West Ham on Sunday, marking a rocky start to the season with only four wins from 13 games.

Despite a summer contract extension, club officials lost confidence in Ten Hag’s ability to reverse United’s poor form, which has left them in 14th place in the Premier League table and casting doubt on their prospects for European competition next season.

Ruud van Nistelrooy, a former United striker, has been appointed as interim manager and is set to lead the team in their upcoming Carabao Cup match against Leicester City at Old Trafford. Van Nistelrooy, who managed PSV Eindhoven until 2023, will be supported by Rene Hake, also part of the revamped backroom staff.

United executives, including new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, undertook a detailed review after last season, when United finished eighth in the league but claimed a surprise FA Cup victory over Manchester City. Ratcliffe initially backed Ten Hag, extending his contract until 2026, yet recent performances proved otherwise.

With Ten Hag’s departure, United has begun its search for a permanent successor. Although Thomas Tuchel and Gareth Southgate were previously considered, circumstances have changed, and United is now evaluating other options as they seek a manager to restore stability and success at Old Trafford.