Erik ten Hag speaks out for the first time about his Man Utd dismissal and says INEOS didn’t keep their promise, which made him feel really embarrassed.
In a rare interview about his time at Manchester United, Erik Ten Hag opened up about feeling “very embarrassed” and “disappointed” when the club sold Scott McTominay.
Ten Hag became United’s manager in 2022 but was let go by INEOS in October 2024 after a tough start to the season, with only three wins in their first nine Premier League games.
His close friend and former teammate, Hans Kraay Jr, said Ten Hag was “completely devastated” by the decision to sack him.
Ten Hag hasn’t said much publicly about his time at United until an interview with The Athletic came out on Tuesday.
In it, the 56-year-old talked about INEOS choosing to extend his contract by one year, just weeks after United’s surprise win over Manchester City in the FA Cup final.
“I wouldn’t continue with only one year left,” Ten Hag explained. He had talks with the club while on holiday in Ibiza and said, “I needed an extra year and we had to do it together.” He added that the club promised loyalty, support, and clear communication. “We talked about problems, but they didn’t keep their promises.”
One example Ten Hag gave was the sale of Scott McTominay to Napoli in the summer of 2024 for £25.7 million.
“That’s why I was disappointed,” he said. “In Ibiza, we agreed – no selling Scott McTominay. We needed to be on the same page during the transfer window. I gave my reasons – we lack goal-scoring options, and Scott brings that plus great spirit. He has United in his heart. But when they brought it up, I said ‘No’. In the end, they sold him. I felt very embarrassed and disappointed.”
Back then, Ten Hag had shared his sadness about losing McTominay, saying he would have “preferred not to lose” him.
After leaving United, McTominay talked about his last day at Carrington with Ten Hag.
“It wasn’t easy to say goodbye,” he told BBC Scotland. “But that’s football and life. I spoke to him, and he shared his thoughts. I said, ‘This is my career. I have to push myself.’ I have to look after myself and follow what I feel is right for my future.”
“It was an honest conversation. I love Manchester United deeply – I’ve been there 22 years – but now I’ve moved on and I’m really enjoying myself here.”
McTominay also said his decision was big but clear. He saw the passionate fans, the coach, the players, and the chance to grow. “I took it and didn’t look back. It didn’t take long for me to decide. I knew it was right, and I have no regrets. When I set my mind on something, I go for it, no holding back.”