Erik ten Hag breaks silence on Manchester United sacking in new emotional open letter

Erik ten Hag says he will cherish the two trophies he won with Manchester United for the rest of his life - as the Dutchman spoke out about his Old Trafford sacking for the first time.

Ten Hag was dismissed by United's Ineos owners on Monday after a poor run of form, culminating in a 2-1 defeat at West Ham less than 24 hours earlier, saw the Reds slump to 14th in the Premier League table.

In an open letter to supporters on Friday night, Ten Hag thanked United supporters for their "unshakeable" support as he admitted his regret at not being able to add to the League Cup and FA Cup triumphs he recorded during his first two seasons at the club.

READ MORE: Every word of Van Nistelrooy's first press conference

READ MORE: What Van Nistelrooy and Ten Hag discussed after sacking

In a letter released by his representatives at SEG Football, Ten Hag said: "Dear fans, Let me start by thanking you.

"Thank you for always being there for the club. Whether it was at a game far away or a tough match at Old Trafford, your support has been unshakeable.

"The atmosphere at Old Trafford has always been electrifying, thanks to you. I felt it many times. Also in away games, it gave the team and me an incredible feeling to hear the United chants taking over the opponents’ stadiums, whether the game was in England, Europe or during the summer tours.

"I always enjoyed meeting Manchester United fans throughout the world. Walking the streets and being able to chat with fans in England, Europe, Asia, Australia, the USA - you inspired me and radiated a strong sense of unity. That’s what makes United supporters so special. I want to thank you for giving me this feeling and for your support.

"I also want to thank the staff in every department of the club for their unwavering support in good times and bad. We won two trophies - achievements that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

"Of course, my dream was to bring more trophies to the cabinet. Unfortunately, that dream has come to an end. I wish all Manchester United fans nothing but success, trophies and glory.

"Your support and the warmth I received from everyone at the club helped me feel at home.

"Thank you for this chapter in my life.

"Erik”.

On Friday, hours before Ten Hag broke his silence over his dismissal, United announced the appointment of Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim.

The 39-year-old will become the club's sixth permanent manager of the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era when he begins his position next month.

His first game as United manager will come at Ipswich Town on November 24.

Get United transfer news and updates on WhatsApp!

Our team of Manchester United experts are on top of all the goings-on at Old Trafford for this week and beyond, and you can get the latest team news, injury updates, reaction and analysis along with inside information to your phone by joining our new free WhatsApp community. You can also join the 50,000 (and growing!) band of United fans who are following our WhatsApp Channel.

Sign up to our community here, and join our WhatsApp channel here.

--

We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.