Erik ten Hag returns to football after Manchester United sacking
Ten Hag was sacked by Manchester United on Monday
Erik ten Hag has quickly returned to the football scene following his dismissal from Manchester United.
Sacked on Monday after United’s 2-1 loss to West Ham, Ten Hag flew straight back to the Netherlands to reflect on his time at Old Trafford.
He narrowly avoided an awkward airport encounter with Omar Berrada, the man responsible for his sacking.
Along with his coaching staff, Ten Hag received a £14million payout after United had extended his contract in the summer.
Despite the financial cushion, Ten Hag appears eager to stay close to the game.
On Saturday, the 54-year-old was spotted at the Erve Asito stadium, watching Heracles Almelo face NAC Breda in the Dutch Eredivisie.
Dressed in a flat cap and coat, Ten Hag observed the match with his entourage and saw Heracles secure a 2-0 victory, thanks to two goals from Brian De Keersmaecker.
It was a short trip for Ten Hag, who grew up in nearby Haaksbergen and has family in the area.
The former United manager has reportedly been left “devastated” by his departure from Old Trafford after two and a half years at the helm, believing he deserved more time to turn things around. United’s rough start this season, with just 11 points from their first nine Premier League matches, ultimately led to his exit.
In a heartfelt statement on Friday, Ten Hag shared his feelings on the sacking, just after Ruben Amorim was announced as his successor.
“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,” he said in a statement.
“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.”
Read more: Arne Slot hails Liverpool substitute in win over Brighton
Virgil van Dijk reveals how Liverpool came back to beat Brighton
