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What next for Erik ten Hag after Man United sack? Luxury holiday, new job, Ajax return

Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag
-Credit: (Image: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)


When quizzed about his future at Manchester United, Erik ten Hag routinely stated that everyone was pulling in the same direction and he had the backing of Ineos and the remainder of the boardroom.

Yet, after a 2-1 defeat to West Ham, where, for large parts, the Reds did everything right other than putting the ball in the net, Ten Hag was gone. There is an acceptance that Sir Jim Ratcliffe and co. will want to make a decision on a new head coach quickly and MEN Sport understands that Ruben Amorim has agreed a deal in principle to leave Sporting and join the Reds.

However, little thought will now be given to Ten Hag who was spotted bidding an emotional farewell at Manchester Airport before boarding a private jet. The Manchester Evening News has taken a look at what is likely to come next for the Dutchman as he sets about rebuilding his career.

READ MORE: Ten Hag lost his job because of the question he could not answer in his first press conference

READ MORE: Fresh Ten Hag theories emerge after United sacking

Luxury holiday

Perhaps top of the bucket list for Ten Hag will be to go on a luxury holiday with his family to refresh himself before delving back into the world of football. Certainly no one will begrudge him that after such a horrible start to the Premier League season.

He was in Ibiza when United officials came calling to inform him that he would be staying at Old Trafford. Perhaps a different location may be in order to forget about what has happened.

Ten Hag will certainly not be short of cash either with Ratcliffe reportedly owing the ex-United boss £11.25m to cover the remainder of his contract, according to Footy Accumulators.

Reacquaint himself with an old hobby

During his downtime, Ten Hag may well decide to revive an old hobby. When he arrived at Old Trafford, the BBC reported that the former defender is a keen dancer.

It is believed he took dancing lessons while living in the Netherlands and who knows he may restart them again now he is without a job. He certainly showcased his moves during his stint at Old Trafford, memorably dancing with Antony and Lisandro Martinez after winning the Carabao Cup at Wembley Stadium.

Erik ten Hag dances with Antony and Lisandro Martinez at Wembley Stadium after winning the Carabao Cup
Erik ten Hag dances with Antony and Lisandro Martinez at Wembley Stadium after winning the Carabao Cup -Credit:Jacques Feeney/Offside/Offside via Getty Images

New job

Following a much-needed rest, a move into punditry could come while he searches for his next managerial role. During Euro 2024, Ten Hag appeared on NOS as part of their coverage and certainly did not hold back with his comments.

While he may be reluctant to join Gary Neville, Roy Keane and Jamie Carragher on Super Sunday, it is entirely feasible that he would be open to joining the Dutch TV channels.

Ajax return?

After eventually doing the punditry circuit, it will be high time for Ten Hag to look for a new coaching job. The obvious move would be to return to Ajax where he is adored by the fanbase.

The Amsterdam club have not been the same since he left and currently sit 11 points behind leaders PSV Eindhoven but do have two games in hand. In a twist of fate, current Ajax boss Francesco Farioli joined the club after leaving Ineos' Nice in the summer.

Like United, Ajax are a team eager to win trophies quickly and considering Ten Hag's knowledge of the Dutch leagues, a move back to the Eredivisie makes sense. A return to the Premier League in any capacity feels far-fetched especially as it seems he never truly settled in England.