Erik ten Hag attends first match since Man Utd sacking as Dutchman returns home to get over loss of dream job

The Dutchman, whose tenure at Old Trafford ended on Monday following a meeting with United’s new stakeholders from INEOS, returned to the Netherlands and was seen at the Erve Asito Stadium on Saturday, where he witnessed Heracles Almelo secure a 2-0 victory over NAC Breda.

Ten Hag’s time with United saw moments of both triumph and struggle. His two-and-a-half-year term was marked by securing two domestic trophies, the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup. However, his league performances left fans and stakeholders wanting as the Red Devils finished eighth in the Premier League, marking the lowest finish in their English top-flight history in the last campaign. Their fortunes did not change in the current campaign as they find themselves in the 13th spot after nine matches with just three wins to their name. The 54-year-old was finally relieved of his duties shortly after a controversial 2-1 defeat to West Ham, which deepened concerns over the club’s faltering performance.

United wasted no time in naming his successor as the club confirmed on Friday that Ruben Amorim of Sporting CP will take over as head coach. The 39-year-old signed a two-and-a-half-year contract, with an additional option to extend for another year.

Until Amorim’s arrival, United legend and former assistant to Ten Hag, Ruud van Nistelrooy, has taken on the role of interim manager. The legendary Dutch striker made an immediate impact, leading the team to an impressive 5-2 victory against Leicester City. The emphatic win has temporarily lifted spirits within the squad as they look to recover from their worst-ever Premier League start with a victory over Chelsea on Sunday evening.