Erik ten Hag stated Manchester United settled with “the best” solution in their pursuit of contacting potential manager, ending speculation of a new name coming through the door.
Before the FA Cup final, widespread reports circulated of the new club board, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, to relieve the Dutchman of his duties as head coach of the side.
However, after the Red Devils’ win against neighbours Manchester City – which many believed was the turning point – a club review took place.
After United reportedly met with possible replacements, with names like Thomas Tuchel, Kieran McKenna, Mauricio Pochettino and Roberto De Zerbi all seen as favourites — a final decision saw the 53-year-old announced to remain at the club and a contract extension in view.
“As in any organisation, and that seems very sensible to me, there is an evaluation,” Ten Hag said to in a Dutch television sports show.
“Conclusions were drawn from there. The new leadership is playing football for the first time,” he said referring to new owner Jim Ratcliffe.
Ten Hag also admitted that Ratcliffe’s company INEOS had also spoken to other coaches, such as Thomas Tuchel.
“That’s no secret.
“Everyone has heard that they have spoken to several candidates.
“In the Netherlands that is not done. You are not even allowed to talk to another club if there is a current trainer there. But in England the rules and laws are different.
“But in the end they came to the conclusion that they have the best trainer,” Ten Hag stated.
The former Ajax coach who was on holiday in Ibiza before the decision was made, continued: “We had a good discussion and various topics were discussed.
“One of the conclusions is that we will extend the contract. But we still have to reach an agreement,” he added.
