Erik ten Hag returns to football five days after being sacked by Manchester United as he’s seen taking in a top-flight match in Holland as his old club get set for Chelsea clash

Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been spotted back in a football stadium for the first time since his sacking earlier this week. 

The Dutchman’s reign as United boss ended on Monday morning following their controversial 2-1 defeat by West Ham. 

Ten Hag’s two-and-a-half years at Old Trafford yielded FA Cup and Carabao Cup honours but his side underperformed in the league, especially in his final full season, which ended with club finishing eighth – their lowest-ever position in the Premier League. 

Ten Hag swiftly jetted back home to the Netherlands following his dismissal and he has now been spotted attending a match in the Dutch Eredivisie between Heracles Almelo and NAC Breda.

The 54-year-old was on hand to witness the home side claim a 2-0 win thanks to a brace from Brian De Keersmaecker at the Erve Asito stadium. 

The Dutchman’s two-and-a-half year reign ended after a controversial defeat by West Ham

United co-owners Ineos had opted to keep faith with the Dutchman at the end of last season but were forced into action after their dismal start to the campaign

His sighting comes just a day after the former Ajax manager drew a line under his time as United boss by penning a heartfelt message to supporters. In it, he thanked his backroom staff, and insisted he wishes the club nothing but success going forward. 

‘Dear fans, Let me start by thanking you.’ He said. ‘Thank you for always being there for the club. Whether it was at a game far away or a tough match at Old Trafford, your support has been unshakeable.

‘The atmosphere at Old Trafford has always been electrifying, thanks to you. I felt it many times. Also in away games, it gave the team and me an incredible feeling to hear the United chants taking over the opponents stadiums, whether the game was in England. Europe or during the summer tours. 

‘I always enjoyed meeting Manchester United fans throughout the world. Walking the streets and being able to chat with fans in England, Europe, Asia, Australia, the USA – you inspired me and radiated a strong sense of unity. That’s what makes United supporters so special.

‘I want to thank you for giving me this feeling and for your support. I also want to thank the staff in every department of the club for their unwavering support in good times and bad.

‘We won two trophies – achievements that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Of course, my dream was to bring more trophies to the cabinet. Unfortunately, that dream has come to an end.

‘I wish all Manchester United fans nothing but success, trophies and glory. Your support and the warmth I received from everyone at the club helped me feel at home. Thank you for this chapter in my life.’

The Red Devils have appointing Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim as Ten Hag’s successor

United claimed an emphatic 5-2 win in their first match under interim Ruud van Nistelrooy

The United legend is preparing the side for the visit of Chelsea in the Premier League on Sunday

United moved quickly to appoint Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim, with the club confirming his signing on Friday. The 39-year-old penned a two-and-a-half year deal with an option for a further 12 months. He is set to start work at Old Trafford later this month once a negotiated notice period has ben served with his current club. 

In the meantime, United are being led by Ten Hag’s former assistant and Red Devils legend Ruud van Nistelrooy. The Dutchman claimed an emphatic 5-2 win in his first game of temporary charge against Leicester. 

United welcome Chelsea to Old Trafford in the Premier League on Sunday, looking to recover from their worst-ever start that sees them languishing in 13th place.