Erik ten Hag sacked by Manchester United

Manchester United have sacked Erik ten Hag as manager with Ruud van Nistelrooy appointed as interim replacement.

Four defeats in nine Premier League games has led to United opting to make the change with the club 14th in the table.

He 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.

However performances in the league have been deteriorating rapidly in the last 18 months.

A club statement read: "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."

Speculation over Ten Hag's future had regained intensity in recent weeks after the 54-year-old Dutchman remained in the role at the end of last season.

United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe kept faith with Ten Hag after United beat Manchester City to lift the FA Cup in May, but results this season led to his departure.

United indicated it was a unanimous and collective decision, albeit a difficult one to take, the PA news agency understands.

The club had wanted to give Ten Hag the chance to work within a new sporting structure set up over the summer, but results and performances have forced their hand.

It is understood the club’s hierarchy had not seen enough progress in Ten Hag’s side to believe they were on the right path to challenge again for the Premier League title.

Former United captain Gary Neville said Ten Hag paid the price for an "unacceptable" Premier League position.

Neville told Sky Sports: "The big shock for me is how bad they’ve been with the new signings that have come in.

"I felt as though they