Manchester United have parted ways with Erik ten Hag following their 2-1 loss to West Ham, a match dubbed ‘El-Sackio’ as both Ten Hag and Hammers manager Julen Lopetegui faced intense job pressure. With Lopetegui seemingly securing his position at the London Stadium for the time being, Ten Hag’s tenure ended after a disappointing run, leaving United with only one win in their last five league games.
Man United currently sit 14th in the Premier League, having scored only eight goals in nine matches. Concerned by recent performances, the club’s hierarchy informed Ten Hag of the decision this morning. Former United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, who joined the coaching staff this summer, will take temporary charge alongside other backroom staff. United will face Leicester next on Wednesday in the Carabao Cup.
While the outgoing Red Devils coach will likely blame misfortune and VAR for yesterday’s defeat and subsequent sacking, the reality is that his team has struggled for a long time now.
Both managers went into the match at the London Stadium under pressure, but Lopetegui was always one win away from an extended grace period at West Ham, whereas Ten Hag entered this game facing a final ultimatum.
Ultimately, the former Ajax boss has actually performed worse than former gaffer Ole Gunnar Solskjær and can have few complaints, especially given that he populated the Man U squad with many of his former players from Holland.
As for Lopetegui, the victory will likely grant him enough breathing space until at least the new year. If he can secure four points from the Hammers’ next two games, the Spaniard can start looking forward rather than down at the bottom of the Premier League.
