An emotional Erik ten Hag shared a hug with a member of airport staff as he jetted off to his homeland, the Netherlands, hours after his Manchester United dismissal on Monday. The Dutchman has already left the UK, having been informed of the club’s decision to part ways at Carrington in the morning.

Following a recommendation by chief executive Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth, United have sacked Ten Hag after two and a half years in charge.

He leaves the Red Devils 14th in the Premier League, winning three and losing four of their nine games at the start of his third season at the helm.

United have also slumped to 21st in the Europa League, surrendering leads to draw all three of their opening matches against FC Twente, FC Porto and Fenerbahce.

Sunday’s 2-1 defeat at West Ham United was decided by a hugely controversial intervention from VAR Michael Oliver, awarding the hosts a stoppage-time penalty.

Ten Hag blasted the latest “injustice” against his side after full-time in what proved to be his final broadcaster interview as United boss.

The result, as undeserved as it felt, was ultimately the final straw for Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS, who have now launched their search for a permanent replacement.

On Monday morning, a club statement read: “Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men’s first-team manager.

“Erik was appointed in April 2022 and led the club to two domestic trophies, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024.

“We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.

“Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team as interim head coach, supported by the current coaching team, whilst a permanent head coach is recruited.”

Ruud van Nistelrooy is expected to act as caretaker manager for United’s four matches before the November international break.

The Dutchman, who scored 150 goals in 219 appearances for United during his playing days, will helm Wednesday’s Carabao Cup last-16 clash with Leicester City at Old Trafford.

Leicester will also visit M16 in the Premier League next weekend after two more home outings against Chelsea and PAOK.

Van Nistelrooy has previously insisted that he isn’t eyeing the permanent job. However, that stance may switch if he oversees a reversal of the team’s fortunes in the coming weeks.

Ruben Amorim, Thomas Frank, and Julian Nagelsmann are among the external coaches linked early in the process.