Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag claimed that he was happy to sign a two-year contract extension with the club. He believes that two years will be enough for him to have the team functioning as per his philosophy.
During an interview with The Guardian, Ten Hag said that he wanted to build something special at Manchester United and that two years was a long time for that. He said:
"No, I wanted this. So I think two years in football is already a long time and in two years, we will see what we have built on top of what we have achieved now."
When pressed if the financial package was comforting as it provided security, Ten Hag added:
"No, I don't need that. I don't need that security. It's important that we are together and that we are working together and when you work together you are in good moments together but also in bad moments. When it's being questioned [his support] in the surrounding [externally] then of course that will flow into a team and is not helpful in achieving success. I don't need this because I have enough security in my life and in my career, and I have enough belief that I know when I have a team I will achieve success."
Erik ten Hag was reportedly on the verge of getting the sack. However, the FA Cup title win saw the new co-owners put their faith in him and tie him down to a new deal.
Erik ten Hag confirmed Manchester United tried to appoint Thomas Tuchel
Erik ten Hag revealed the circumstances that led to his contract renewal at Manchester United earlier this year. He staid that he was in Ibiza when the club management approached him.
He also claimed that the Red Devils informed him that they held talks with Thomas Tuchel before offering him the new deal.
He said on Dutch TV during Euro 2024:
"The club management came to me while I was on holiday in Ibiza. They suddenly showed up on my doorstep and told me they wanted to continue with me. It was a turbulent season. Never a dull moment. Manchester United have told me that they spoke with Tuchel, but they eventually came to the conclusion that they already have the best manager."
Apart from Tuchel, the Red Devils were also linked with Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Frank, Robert de Zerbi, Gareth Southgate, and Graham Potter.