By Peter Ochieng
Erik ten Hag has been appointed as the new Manchester United Manager, the English Premier League (EPL) side announced on Thursday, April 21, 2022.
He joins the Red Devils men’s first team, subject to work visa requirements, from the end of this season until June 2025, with the option to extend for a further year.
John Murtough, United's Football Director, said: “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." as quoted by the Club's website.
He added, “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.”
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File Image of Manchester United { Photo Courtesy: Manchester United Facebook Page }[/caption]
On his side, the new Manager said, “It is a great honour to be appointed manager of Manchester United and I am hugely excited by the challenge ahead. 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.”
He will take over from interim Ralf Rangnick, at the end of this season.
Erik ten Hag becomes United's 5th permanent Manager since the retirement of the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013.
David Moyes, Louis Van Gaal, Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjær have handled United at different stages since Ferguson left.