Erik ten Hag has wished Manchester United fans “nothing but success, trophies and glory” after his sacking following a poor start to the season.
Sporting Lisbon head coach Ruben Amorim was confirmed as the Dutchman’s permanent successor on Friday and will start work on November 11.
Ten Hag led United to victory in the League Cup final and a third-placed Premier League finish in 2023, following up with an FA Cup triumph against Manchester City in his second season.
But United limped home eighth in the league and the Dutchman paid the price for a poor start to the new campaign.
The former Ajax boss warmly thanked fans in the statement released by his representatives SEG on Friday.
“Thank you for always being there for the club,” he said. “Whether it was at a game far away or a tough match at Old Trafford, your support has been unshakeable.
“The atmosphere at Old Trafford has always been electrifying, thanks to you.
“I felt it many times. Also in away games, it gave the team and me an incredible feeling to hear the United chants taking over the opponents’ stadiums, whether the game was in England, Europe or during the summer tours.”
He also thanked staff throughout the club for their “unwavering support in good times and bad”.
Ten Hag said he would “cherish” the trophies he won during his stint at Old Trafford.
“Of course, my dream was to bring more trophies to the cabinet,” he said. “Unfortunately, that dream has come to an end.
“I wish all Manchester United fans nothing but success, trophies and glory. Your support and the warmth I received from everyone at the club helped me feel at home. Thank you for this chapter in my life. Erik”
Ten Hag was fired after Sunday’s 2-1 defeat at West Ham, which left United 14th in the Premier League.
Interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy oversaw a 5-2 League Cup win against Leicester on Wednesday and is now preparing to lead the side in Sunday’s league game against Chelsea.
