Ajax manager Erik ten Hag has opened up on his future amid interest from Manchester United and Newcastle United.
Speaking to ESPN, as cited by Goal, Erik ten Hag has offered his thoughts on his future amid interest from a host of top clubs across Europe. The Dutchman is regarded as one of the best coaches due to his immense success at Ajax. It has also put multiple clubs on red alert, with Manchester United among the ones keeping tabs on him.
Formerly of Utrecht, ten Hag joined Ajax at the end of 2017. During his ongoing four-year spell at the club, the 51-year-old has helped Ajax secure two Eredivisie titles. Arguably his biggest achievement came during the 2018/19 season when he masterminded an excellent Champions League campaign that saw Ajax reach the semi-finals.
The Dutch giants have made a solid impression in Europe this season as well, notably securing two wins against Borussia Dortmund. His team’s performances have earned ten Hag plaudits from all over Europe, with Manchester United now considering him as a potential replacement for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
However, in a recent interview, Erik ten Hag opened up on the speculations surrounding his future. “I live in the present, so I find it hard to answer this,” he told ESPN before going on to suggest that he is happy at his current club.
“I always want to improve my team, and as long as I feel this motivation, I want to keep going if Ajax wants that too. I am happy at Ajax. I can work there in a good way. The conditions and the climate are good. Good management and very nice staff, and not to forget I have a very good group of players, which is also flexible,” he added.
Ten Hag’s comments could be a massive blow for Manchester United, who have already missed out on Antonio Conte. It remains to be seen how they perform under Solskjaer when club football resumes next weekend amid criticism surrounding him and his team’s displays. However, the Norwegian is unlikely to be sacked given the lack of alternatives available in the market.
As for Newcastle, they have recently announced Eddie Howe as the man to guide the team through into the new era. The former Bournemouth boss is set to begin his new stint next weekend when the Magpies lock horns with Brentford.
