Erik ten Hag Manchester United
Image Credits: SKY SPORTS
As Manchester United prepare for a pivotal European final in Bilbao, attention has turned not just to the players on the pitch – but those who helped pave the way.
The Europa League final against Spurs marks a chance for United to cap off a chaotic season with silverware and a return to the Champions League.
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But while Ruben Amorim will lead the Red Devils from the touchline, questions have surfaced about whether his predecessor, Erik ten Hag, would be in attendance.
The Dutch manager was sacked in November 2024, just months after guiding United to FA Cup success.
A victory that directly secured the club’s Europa League place.
Ten Hag also oversaw three of United’s group stage matches before his departure, meaning he played a significant role in this year’s campaign.
Manchester United opt against inviting Erik ten Hag
As per BBC Sport’s Simon Stone, however, the club has opted not to invite Ten Hag to the final, breaking from a previous gesture made under similar circumstances.
In 2017, Louis van Gaal – who had been sacked by the club a year earlier, was invited by United to the Europa League final in Stockholm.
He watched the Reds beat Ajax alongside his wife, dressed in club attire.
The decision to leave Ten Hag off the guest list contrasts sharply with that precedent and has raised eyebrows among fans.
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Also unclear is whether Ruud van Nistelrooy and Marcus Rashford, both involved during the early stages of the tournament, will be in the stands.
Speaking to the press ahead of the final, current boss Amorim said: “I am really confident.
“I feel that my players are ready for this game.
“They know what it means, not just for us but for our fans and for the club.
“After this season, we are ready to fight for the one thing that can help us remember this season in a different way.”
A win in Bilbao would do just that – but United’s road to redemption is casting shadows of the past along the way.
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