Dan Ashworth talks up Erik ten Hag as 'best partner to work with' – then gives him one-year contract extension

07/04/2024 06:29 AM

Manchester United have ended speculation regarding Erik ten Hag’s future by announcing a contract extension for him.

The Red Devils boss agreed a new one-year deal, which keeps him there until 2026 as a reward for guiding the club to FA Cup glory last season.

He had been under pressure with the club ending eighth in the table – United’s lowest ever finish in the Premier League.

But his success in the FA Cup – his second piece of silverware following the Carabao Cup win in 2023 – has seen him handed fresh terms at Old Trafford.

Speaking to the club’s website, the delighted Dutchman said: “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.

“However, we must also be clear that there is still lots of hard work ahead to reach the levels expected of Manchester United, which means challenging for English and European titles.

“In my discussions with the club, we have found complete unity in our vision for reaching those goals, and we are all strongly committed to making that journey together."

United’s new sporting director Dan Ashworth has hailed the ex-Ajax manager, labelling him the ‘best partner’ he could wish for.

He remarked: “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."

More to follow…