Manchester United confirmed on Thursday that Erik ten Hag has extended his contract with the club until 2026. The agreement includes him retaining the title of “first team manager” after the club triggered a one-year option. Discussions are ongoing regarding potential changes to Ten Hag’s backroom staff, with the addition of Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake to the team at Old Trafford.
In response to the contract extension, Ten Hag expressed his satisfaction with the continued collaboration, stating, “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 emphasized the need for hard work to meet the high expectations associated with Manchester United, including competing for English and European titles.
Through discussions with the club, Ten Hag highlighted the unity in their vision for achieving their goals, indicating a strong commitment to the shared journey ahead. The existing terms of his contract will be maintained, including the transfer veto established upon his arrival from Ajax in 2022. Rather than negotiating a new deal, United opted to activate a one-year extension, ensuring that the 54-year-old manager remains with the team until June 2026.
Sporting director Dan Ashworth expressed confidence in Ten Hag’s capabilities, despite the challenges faced in the previous season, where United finished eighth in the Premier League. Ashworth acknowledged the areas for improvement identified in the end-of-season review but affirmed that Ten Hag is the right person to lead the team forward. With two trophies secured in the past two seasons, Ashworth praised Ten Hag’s success as one of the most consistently effective coaches in European football.
Reflecting on the achievements of the players and staff under Ten Hag’s leadership, Ashworth emphasized the need for continued success at the highest levels and a more consistent performance. The partnership between Ten Hag and Manchester United aims to elevate standards and outcomes, building upon the foundation of past successes to drive the team towards greater achievements in the future.