'They should have sacked him long ago'- Ex-Nigeria star Elijah expected Man Utd to fire Ten Hag

Former Super Eagles defender Sam Elijah has weighed in on the departure of Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag, offering insights into the club’s potential next steps and backing Ruud van Nistelrooy as a strong candidate for the permanent role.

Manchester United confirmed Erik Ten Hag’s departure on their official website following a 2-1 defeat to West Ham on Sunday. The Dutchman exits Old Trafford after a tenure marked by fluctuating results and, more recently, a challenging season.

In their statement, United expressed gratitude for his efforts and named club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy as interim manager.

"We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future,” the club statement read. “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."

In an interview with allnigeriasoccer.com, Elijah shared his views on Ten Hag’s departure, stating he wasn’t surprised. He believes the team’s lack of cohesion and confidence on the field was evident.

"It is not a surprise to me because I don't think anything is working for him, technically, or tactically,” Elijah noted. 

“If it comes to the result of the team, you will see that the boys have lost steam, they have lost cohesion, they are no longer a group, they are just playing individually."

Elijah acknowledged the patience shown by the club’s owners and fans, crediting their belief in Ten Hag’s project but ultimately suggesting it was overdue.

"I think they gave him a long time. They should have sacked him long ago. But the owner of the club, the fans stood by him. 

"They believed in his project before the league started but nothing really worked for me. I am not surprised that he was told he needed to go,” he added.

Looking ahead, Elijah endorsed Van Nistelrooy as the best choice for the permanent position, citing the former United striker’s understanding of the club’s culture.

"I think Ruud Van Nistelrooy should be the perfect replacement. He is an insider, he has played for the club. He knows the culture of the club and he has tested it,” said Elijah.

"Sometimes the culture of a team affects coaching or the result of a coach but Ruud has played for the club and paid his dues as a player. He should be the perfect replacement.”

As the club seeks a new manager, names like Xavi Hernandez and Julian Nagelsmann are rumoured as potential candidates, though United has yet to confirm any further moves.

Adeyemi Adewale

Photo Credit: manutd.com 

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