It has been over a month since Erik ten Hag parted ways with Manchester United.
The Dutch manager, once celebrated for his tactical brilliance at Ajax, left Old Trafford amid mounting pressure and poor league results.
Now, the question remains: will he return to the Premier League to prove his doubters wrong?
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Erik ten Hag record at Man United
Ten Hag’s tenure at Manchester United began with promise. In his first season, he delivered the Carabao Cup and followed it up with an FA Cup victory in his second year.
However, despite heavy investments in the transfer market, United’s league performances fell short.
The Red Devils finished eighth last season, and an underwhelming start to the new campaign saw them languishing in 14th place. After just nine games, the club decided to part ways with the Dutchman.
Since his dismissal, Ten Hag has kept a low profile, taking time to reflect before deciding on his next career move.
Former Netherlands international Ryan Babel, who briefly played under Ten Hag at Ajax, believes the manager has the qualities to bounce back.
“He is a great coach with a clear vision and a sharp eye for football,” Babel said. “But the Premier League demands adaptability. You need a Plan B, and I’m not sure he had that. He stuck to his principles, even when they worked against him.”
Will Erik Ten Hag return to the Premier League?
Babel is confident in Ten Hag’s determination to succeed in England’s top flight. “He seems like the type who wants to bounce back,” he said. “Whether he gets the chance in England again is uncertain, but he definitely wants to prove himself.”
While Ten Hag contemplates his next step, Manchester United has experienced a brief revival. Interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy led the team on a four-game unbeaten run and new permanent boss Ruben Amorim suffered a first defeat in four outings at title-chasing Arsenal.
Amorim’s focus is now on navigating a hectic December schedule, with nine matches to play and a squad that must adapt to his methods quickly.
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What’s next for Ten Hag?
The Premier League is known for second chances and Ten Hag’s coaching pedigree may earn him another opportunity.
For now, fans and pundits alike are watching closely to see if he can rebuild his reputation and return to the high-pressure world of English football. With his drive and tactical acumen, a comeback might just be on the horizon.