Erik ten Hag: Manchester United Boss Opens Up on Why Red Devils Snubbed Thomas Tuchel to Retain Him

• Erik ten Hag has explained why Manchester United snubbed Thomas Tuchel to settle on him as the best option for the club
• Tuchel and a host of managers were mooted as potential replacements for the Dutch tactician after his difficult 2023–24 season
• However, the owners of the club identified three key factors, including his FA Cup triumph, as reasons to retain him as manager

Manchester United manager, Erik ten Hag, has disclosed the details behind the club's decision to retain him as head coach amid speculation about his potential dismissal.

The Dutch manager experienced a challenging 2023–24 season, with United finishing a disappointing eighth in the league and being eliminated from the UEFA Champions League.

However, he led the Red Devils to an FA Cup victory, defeating local rivals Manchester City at Wembley.

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Prior to the FA Cup final, widespread belief suggested that the former Ajax Amsterdam boss would be dismissed, per MEN.

However, after considering their options in the managerial market, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS decided it was best to keep him.

Ten Hag explains why United snubbed Tuchel

Ten Hag has now shared insights into the club's decision-making process.

He mentioned that United had conversations with former Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel but ultimately chose to keep him, as they deemed him the 'best' option.

“Manchester United have told me that they spoke with Thomas Tuchel, yes,” he told NOS Studio Voetbal, as cited by Fabrizio Romano.

“They said they eventually came to the conclusion that they already have the best manager.”

He also added, “INEOS are new to football, so it's normal to take their time and reflect on the season.”

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“It's no secret that they talked with multiple candidates for the Manchester United job. In England, it’s allowed.”

The club is now planning contract talks to extend the 53-year-old's tenure in Manchester beyond 2025.

The 3 factors that secured Ten Hag's job

As reported by Sports Brief, details have emerged on the three key factors that secured Erik ten Hag's position as Manchester United's manager.

Firstly, his success in securing trophies for the club, and then his improved performance quality in the final weeks of the 2023–24 campaign.

While, the development of young talents Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo significantly contributed to the decision to retain him.