Erik ten Hag’s tenure at Manchester United ended after a 2-1 defeat to West Ham United, marking the culmination of a reign marked by control but ultimately hindered by accumulating setbacks. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, Ten Hag took full command over club operations, but when results soured, his influence left him with nowhere to hide. The Dutchman’s exit came as United found themselves struggling in 14th place after only four wins in their first 13 games of the 2024-25 season.
From adjusting pitch grass length to restructuring match-day preparations, Ten Hag was given authority at nearly every level. Upon arrival, he remodeled United’s video analysis room with a £200,000 investment to better engage players. He also revamped Old Trafford’s locker arrangements and adjusted pre-game routines, requesting that players arrive in their cars on game day rather than staying together overnight in a hotel. The changes extended to moving the dugout closer to the tunnel for an improved view of matches, despite additional costs to switch heated benches.
United anticipated Ten Hag’s exacting style, recalling how his stubborn streak had surfaced at Ajax, where he once continued using Utrecht-branded luggage despite objections. But while his resolve was once seen as a strength, results gradually showed the limitations of a top-down approach. After two years and four months, Ten Hag’s tenure came to an end, with his record standing at 70 wins and 35 losses over 128 matches. United sources noted his professionalism until the end, though his departure was ultimately expected as he struggled to turn the team’s trajectory around.
