‘Invaluable source of support’ – Ten Hag reacts as coach departs for shock international job

Steve McClaren has accepted his first managerial role in five years and is set to become head coach of the Jamaica national team.

McClaren returned to Manchester United two years ago as part of Erik ten Hag’s backroom staff. Together they led United to two trophy wins in as many years.

Now McClaren is set to takeover as Jamaica’s new manager.

However, it was McClaren’s second spell at Old Trafford.

He served as assistant to Sir Alex Ferguson from the Treble-winning 1999 season to 2001, and later went on to manage an array of clubs as well as the England national team.

Speaking to club media, McClaren said (via ManUtd.com): “I wish to say a huge thank you to everyone at Manchester United for their friendship, help and support during the past two years.

“I am delighted to have played my part in helping Erik deliver two trophies to the club and for my final game to have been our FA Cup victory over Manchester City, there can be no better note on which to end.

“I have no doubt the foundations that are in place at Manchester United will see the club challenging again soon for all the major trophies.”

Jamaica have gone for experience with McClaren’s appointment and we all wish him the best of luck with the Reggae Boyz.

Reflecting on McClaren’s shock departure, Ten Hag said: “I want to thank Steve for his tremendous service over the past two years. He has been an invaluable source of support and advice to me since I arrived in English football, helping us achieve two trophies while laying down foundations for future success.

“Steve and I have been friends for 16 years since we first worked together at FC Twente and that relationship will continue as he embarks on this next challenge, as will his bond with Manchester United. All of us at the club wish Steve the best of luck in his new role.” 

McClaren did not go on tour with the first-team this summer. He stayed behind to oversee the return of international players to pre-season training at Carrington such as new signing Joshua Zirkzee.

However, the 63-year-old will continue to carry out those duties until the rest of the squad returns from the US tour next week.

Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake arrived at the club as new assistant coaches earlier this month.

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