Erik ten Hag gives four-word verdict on Man Utd tenure and confirms plan to return

Erik ten Hag has suggested that 'good was not enough' at Manchester United in his first interview since being sacked the Red Devils.

Ten Hag, 55, was given the axe in October after a woeful start to his third season, as United shelled out £10.4million to offload him and his coaching staff. That was off the back of an eighth-place finish, the worst United have performed in the Premier League era and a five-place drop from where they finished alongside winning the Carabao Cup in 2023.

What saved Ten Hag was a stunning victory over rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final, earning himself a contract extension and the support of United's hierarchy - but their faith didn't last long and now Ruben Amorim is in charge of the Red Devils. Ten Hag issued a statement shortly after his departure but he's recently spoken more candidly in an interview via his agency, SEG.

Ten Hag declared: "We had many highs but as I always say: there is always room for improvement." The former Ajax manager added: "Good is not enough. You can do always better."

Ten Hag went on to state that he doesn't have any plans to return to management this season, confirming: "I've already decided not to take any job until the 1st of July, so until the start of the new season."

Although he seems happy to be having a break from the dugout, Ten Hag admitted: "If there's one thing I miss, it's Old Trafford."

The 55-year-old evidently appreciated feeling the support of United fans, beginning his farewell statement by saying: "Dear fans, let me start by thanking you. Thank you for always being there for the club. Whether it was at a game far away or a tough match at Old Trafford, your support has been unshakeable.

"The atmosphere at Old Trafford has always been electrifying, thanks to you. I felt it many times. Also in away games, it gave the team and me an incredible feeling to hear the United chants taking over the opponents' stadiums, whether the game was in England. Europe or during the summer tours.

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"I always enjoyed meeting Manchester United fans throughout the world. Walking the streets and being able to chat with fans in England, Europe, Asia, Australia, the USA - you inspired me and radiated a strong sense of unity. That's what makes United supporters so special.

"I want to thank you for giving me this feeling and for your support. I also want to thank the staff in every department of the club for their unwavering support in good times and bad. We won two trophies - achievements that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Of course, my dream was to bring more trophies to the cabinet. Unfortunately, that dream has come to an end.

"I wish all Manchester United fans nothing but success, trophies and glory. Your support and the warmth I received from everyone at the club helped me feel at home. Thank you for this chapter in my life. Erik."

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