Manchester United have announced that Ajax boss Erik ten Hag will take over management of the club from the end of this season, on a deal that will run until June 2025.
It was a poorly kept secret that the Red Devils were set to announce a new boss in the coming days, with ten Hag the overwhelming favourite for the role after a round of interviews which saw him move ahead of Mauricio Pochettino in the pecking order.
And now, the deal has been announced, with Manchester United taking to their website to reveal the news.
'Manchester United is delighted to announce the appointment of Erik ten Hag as Men’s First Team Manager, subject to work visa requirements, from the end of this season until June 2025, with the option to extend for a further year', the club wrote.
What has Ten Hag said?
Speaking to Manchester United's official site, ten Hag spoke of his excitement at the move, and also his determination to bring the club out of the slump in which they currently sit.
“It is a great honour to be appointed manager of Manchester United and I am hugely excited by the challenge ahead. I know the history of this great club and the passion of the fans, and I am absolutely determined to develop a team capable of delivering the success they deserve.
“It will be difficult to leave Ajax after these incredible years, and I can assure our fans of my complete commitment and focus on bringing this season to a successful conclusion before I move to Manchester United.”
Meanwhile, the Dutchman told Ajax's website that his focus for the rest of the season remains on the Amsterdam club, and that he intends to win the Eredivisie title before his departure.
“I'm happy that it has been finalized and that it has been officially announced. That clarity is important. But I only have one interest now and that's these last five games. I want to finish my time here on a positive note, by winning the league. By doing so, we'll qualify directly for the Champions League. Ajax belongs there.”
It is expected that current Manchester United interim boss Ralf Rangnick will move into a consultancy role with the club come the end of the season.
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