ERIK TEN HAG said his “dream has come to an end” as he broke his silence after being sacked by Manchester United.
Ten Hag, 54, was dismissed on Monday morning after a dismal start to the season which sees the Red Devils languishing in 14th in the Premier League table.
The Dutchman, who has already been replaced by Sporting Lisbon head coach Ruben Amorim, won the League Cup and FA Cup during his two years at Old Trafford.
And he graciously thanked both the fans and club staff in a lengthy farewell statement.
In a letter to the Man Utd fans, he 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.
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“I also want to thank the staff in every department of the club for their unwavering support in good times and bad.”
Ten Hag then turned his attention towards the successes and failures on the pitch.
He added: “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.”
Ten Hag arrived in 2022 and won the Carabao Cup in his first season, while he also guided Man Utd to a third-place finish in the Premier League.
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Despite finishing eighth last season, he was handed a one-year contract extension in July after Man Utd beat Man City to win the FA Cup.
He subsequently spent almost £200million in the transfer market to strengthen his squad – only to lead them to their worst ever Premier League start.
They are also without a win in three Europa League matches.
Ruud van Nistelrooy took interim charge on Wednesday night as Man Utd beat Leicester 5-2 to reach the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.
Former Man Utd striker Van Nistelrooy, 48, will remain at the helm for the games against Chelsea, PAOK and Leicester, before Amorim begins his new job on November 11.
What Man Utd said on hiring EACH of their post-Fergie managers
David Moyes
“All the skills needed to build on United’s phenomenal legacy.”
Louis van Gaal
“One of the outstanding managers in the game today.”
Jose Mourinho
“Quite simply the best manager in the game today.”
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
“A wealth of experience, with a desire to give young players their chance and a deep understanding of the culture of the club.”
Erik ten Hag
“One of the most exciting and successful coaches in Europe.”
Ruben Amorim
“One of the most exciting and highly rated young coaches in European football.”
