'Why not?': Ten Hag open to Ajax return with Man Utd future uncertain

Suraj Radia

• Updated: 5 May 2024 13:01 BST
• 3 min read

Erik ten Hag has left the door open over a potential return to Ajax but the Dutchman insists he still believes he will be at Manchester United next season.

Speculation has been rife over Ten Hag’s future following the arrival of new board member Sir Jim Ratcliffe earlier this year, with many believing the United boss will lose his job after a disappointing season.

Such is the intensity of the rumours over Ten Hag that he has already been touted for his next role, with suggestions that he could be in line for a sensational return to Ajax, who are looking for a new manager this summer.

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However, Ten Hag confirmed his intention to remain at United, telling Dutch outlet Voetbal Zone: “The fact is that I still have a continuous contract here for another year. I signed consciously and am not a person who walks away. So I assume that I will be at Manchester United next year.

“Has there been any contact with Ajax? No,” Ten Hag added, before refusing to rule out a return to his former club, saying: "Why not? I had a very good period at Ajax and was able to work there in a very pleasant way. It is a fascinating club, with many possibilities.”

Ten Hag still expecting to plan for next season at United

United have yet to make a formal decision on Ten Hag’s future and nothing is likely to be announced before the club face off in their second successive FA Cup final at the end of the month.

However, Ten Hag’s underwhelming transfer business combined with United’s failure to qualify for the Champions League and their lacklustre style of play are all issues which could cost the ex-Ajax boss his job.

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Ten Hag has remained defiant throughout the speculation, insisting that he has not been told anything by the new regime and that he will continue to plan for next season and is not expecting any surprises.

“I never said anything different,” Ten Hag said. “Nothing has ever been stated otherwise.

“There has been a change in leadership and management of the club, including in its structure. But again: I work very well with these people. You can be assured that we will be talking to each other on a daily basis about next season.”