Erik ten Hag responds to Ajax speculation amid Man Utd uncertainty

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has downplayed talk of a return to Ajax this summer, though opened the door to a reunion with the Dutch giants in the future.

Ten Hag's job at Old Trafford has been called into question following a dismal 2023/24 campaign, with the Red Devils missing out on Champions League qualification. They could also fall out of the European places altogether during the final weeks of the Premier League season, though they still have a chance to win silverware having reached the FA Cup final for a second-successive year.

The Dutchman is also facing scrutiny due to United's onboarding of minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who is now in charge of footballing decisions at the club. Jason Wilcox has been brought in as technical director and talks are ongoing with Newcastle over sporting director Dan Ashworth.

Meanwhile, turmoil at Ten Hag's previous club Ajax has led to intense speculation, from both England and the Netherlands, that he could make a sensational return to the Johan Cruyff Arena in time for the 2024/25 season.

But in an interview with Viaplay NL, Ten Hag was defiant that he would still be at United next term.

"I expect to be the manager of Manchester United next year. I have not been in contact with Ajax, no," he said. "I signed a long-term deal consciously and I am not a person who walks away."

When asked if he could manage Ajax again at some point later in his career, Ten Hag replied: "Oh yes. Why not? I had a great time at Ajax. It's a fascinating club with many possibilities."

Ten Hag won three Eredivisie titles and two Dutch Cups during a hugely successful five-year spell at Ajax between 2017 and 2022, reestablishing them as the dominant force in Dutch football.

Former Chelsea boss Graham Potter is also a leading contender to take the Ajax job for next season, as well as Francesco Farioli of Nice - who, like United, are run by Ratcliffe.

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