Erik ten Hag, recently dismissed from his role as Manchester United manager, may not stay away from football management for long, as rumors swirl about his potential return to the dugout. Reports suggest the Dutch tactician is a candidate to replace Marco Rose at RB Leipzig, a club facing significant challenges this season.
Ten Hag’s Departure from Manchester United
Ten Hag’s tenure at Manchester United ended in October following a poor start to the season. Despite leading the club to Carabao Cup and FA Cup triumphs and maintaining a respectable 55% win ratio, the team’s performance in the current campaign fell far short of expectations. A 14th-place standing in the Premier League and a dismal defeat to West Ham sealed his fate. Ruud van Nistelrooy briefly stepped in as interim manager before Ruben Amorim was named permanent head coach. https://www.sportbible.com/football/football-news/man-utd/erik-ten-hag-next-job-man-utd-374034-20241203#:~:text=was%20given%20the-,boot%20in%20October,-with%20United%20in
RB Leipzig’s Struggles and Marco Rose’s Position
RB Leipzig, currently fourth in the Bundesliga, has struggled domestically and in European competition under Marco Rose. Their form has been concerning, with no wins in their last six matches across all competitions. The team sits last in their Champions League group, with just two points from five games, and their most recent outing—a 5-1 thrashing by VfL Wolfsburg—has amplified calls for change.
A decisive DFB-Pokal Round of 16 match against Eintracht Frankfurt could determine Rose’s future, and Leipzig management has reportedly begun exploring potential replacements.
Ten Hag’s Potential Role at Leipzig
Ten Hag, who is currently enjoying a break and observing football from his native Netherlands, has prior experience in German football. He previously managed Bayern Munich’s second team during Pep Guardiola’s tenure and is well-versed in the high-pressing and technical style associated with German football. This background, combined with his success at Ajax and Manchester United, makes him an attractive option for Leipzig.
Competing Candidates
Roger Schmidt, the former Benfica manager, is another name on Leipzig’s radar. Having managed Red Bull Salzburg and Bayer Leverkusen in the past, Schmidt fits Leipzig’s style and philosophy. However, Schmidt reportedly prefers to wait until the summer to take on a new role, leaving Ten Hag as a strong midseason option. https://www.sportbible.com/football/football-news/man-utd/erik-ten-hag-next-job-man-utd-374034-20241203#:~:text=Germany%2C%20Ten-,Hag%20is%20a,-potential%20candidate%20to
Conclusion
Should Leipzig decide to part ways with Rose, Ten Hag’s appointment could bring a fresh perspective and stability to a talented yet underperforming squad. With his tactical acumen and proven track record, the move could represent an opportunity for both Ten Hag and Leipzig to bounce back from recent setbacks.