‘Lots of hard work ahead’ – Erik ten Hag signs Manchester United extension

Erik ten Hag has signed a contract extension with Manchester United until 2026.

There was a lot of speculation surrounding Ten Hag’s future earlier this summer but the club decided the Dutchman was the best fit to manage the team following an end-of-season review.

The manager’s previous deal was set to expire in 2025, but his deal has been extended by a further year. We can only assume that will be extended again if Ten Hag can match the club’s expectations over the next two years.

United finished eighth in the Premier League last season, although Europa League football was secured by beating rivals Man City in the FA Cup final as Ten Hag won his second trophy in as many years.

Ten Hag, who joined United from Ajax in 2022, told club media (via Andy Mitten): “I am very pleased to have reached agreement with the club to continue working together.

“Looking back at the past two years, we can reflect with pride on two trophies and many examples of progression from where we were when I joined.”

He added: “We must also be clear that there is still lots of hard work ahead.”

United’s newly appointed sporting director Dan Ashworth reflected on the news by saying: “With two trophies in the past two seasons, Erik has reinforced his record as one of the most consistently successful coaches in European football.

“While the club’s review of last season highlighted areas for improvement, it also reached a clear conclusion that Erik was the best partner for us to work with in driving up standards and outcomes.

“This group of players and staff have already shown they are capable of competing and winning at the top level; now we need to do it more consistently. With our strengthened football leadership team now in place, we are looking forward to working hand-in-hand with Erik to achieve our shared ambitions for this football club.”

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