Ten Hag breaks silence on McClaren’s Man United exit

Erik ten Hag has broken his silence over Steve McClaren’s decision to leave Man United, as he paid a heartfelt tribute to his former assistant manager. 

On Wednesday, Jamaica announced McClaren as their new men’s head coach as the former England manager opted to call an end to his time at Old Trafford.

The 63-year-old – who previously was assistant to Sir Alex Ferguson – returned to Old Trafford at Ten Hag’s side two seasons ago when the Dutchman was tasked with leading the club back to silverware success.

Now, first-team coach ten Hag has paid tribute to McClaren and the ‘invaluable’ help he has provided across his two years in the dugout at United.  

In a statement on the club website, Ten Hag said: ‘I want to thank Steve for his tremendous service over the past two years. 

Erik ten Hag (left) has broken his silence over Steve McClaren’s departure from Man United

McClaren has spent the past two years as assistant to men’s first-team manager ten Hag

‘He has been an invaluable source of support and advice to me since I arrived in English football, helping us achieve two trophies while laying down foundations for further success.

‘Steve and I have been friends for 16 years since we first worked together at FC Twente and that relationship will continue as he embarks on this next challenge, as will his bond with Manchester United. All of us at the club wish Steve the best of luck in his new role.’

McClaren’s presence within United’s squad did exactly that as they won the Carabao Cup in Ten Hag’s first year and finished last season by beating rivals Man City in the FA Cup final.

McClaren himself added: ‘I wish to say a huge thank you to everyone at Manchester United for their friendship, help and support during the past two years.

‘I am delighted to have played my part in helping Erik deliver two trophies to the club and for my final game to have been our FA Cup victory over Manchester City, there can be no better note on which to end.

‘I have no doubt the foundations that are in place at Manchester United will see the club challenging again soon for all the major trophies.’

The 63-year-old – who previously was assistant to Sir Alex Ferguson – insisted he’s ‘extremely proud’ to be taking up a new challenge as the first team coach for Jamaica

Jamaica have been without a boss since Heimir Hallgrímsson resigned at the end of last month

McClaren was previously England manager during an unsuccessful spell between 2006 and 2007, leaving abruptly as the Three Lions failed to qualify for Euro 2008.

He has since continued in assistant positions and has been involved with United’s pre-season training ahead of the new Premier League season getting underway, but will now depart to take up his new job in Jamaica.

Confirming news of his departure, McClaren insisted his previous technical advisor role at FIFA helped him recognise the potential in advancing the Jamaica national team.

‘I am extremely proud and excited to take up the position of head coach for the Jamaica men’s national team. I had no hesitation in accepting a position that is ideally suited to me at this stage of my career,’ he said.