Man Utd favourite open to replacing Ten Hag: ‘They can always call’

Erik ten Hag’s sacking from Manchester United came as a surprise to Robin van Persie.

The coach of SC Heerenveen has not yet received a phone call from the Premier League giants where he played for three seasons but has indicated that Old Trafford can always call. Van Persie did an internship under Ten Hag just last season.

Monday was the end of the road for Ten Hag at Man Utd. Although the dismissal was not unexpected to many, Van Persie is still somewhat surprised. “It is difficult to judge,” said the former Dutch international.

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“Ten Hag extended his contract for two years last summer. He was able to bring in a number of players and set up his staff. They are now nine games into this contract, so I think it is very early.”

Van Persie: ‘Man Utd can always call’

Man Utd have temporarily put Ruud van Nistelrooy in charge, with Ruben Amorim expected to be named the club’s new permanent head coach shortly. Van Persie was not called by the club management of his former employer.

“I don’t expect that either. I’m happy here,” said Van Persie, referring to his current job at Heerenveen. “Of course, they can always call. I know some people there too. Ruud is taking over for now. I wish them all the best. These are turbulent times in Manchester.”

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In the summer of 2012, Van Persie joined Man Utd, who transferred over €30 million to Arsenal to finance the controversial transfer. The now 41-year-old former footballer played a total of 105 matches for the Red Devils, scored 58 times and won the Premier League.

Last season, Van Persie briefly returned to his former stomping ground for a coaching camp where he worked closely with the recently fired Ten Hag. “I feel very sorry for Erik,” Van Persie emphasises.

“For my course, I was allowed to shadow him for four days. I am aware of his working methods. He is a great person, so it is especially very unpleasant for him. I know how much he puts into it and how hard he works for it.”