Sir Jim Ratcliffe has stated that supporting Erik ten Hag last summer was a “mistake.”
The co-owner of Manchester United apologized to fans for retaining the Dutch manager, despite the team’s lowest league finish in 34 years.
He also acknowledged that it was an error to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director.
Following a post-season review after winning the FA Cup and finishing eighth, Ten Hag was given a one-year contract extension.
He was subsequently dismissed ten Premier League games into the current season, with United in 14th place.
Sacking Ten Hag and appointing Ruben Amorim as his replacement cost the club £21.4 million. Ashworth’s departure in December after only five months incurred an additional cost of £4.1 million.
Ratcliffe, aged 72, said: “Those decisions were errors. While there were extenuating circumstances, they were still mistakes. I accept responsibility and apologize for them.”
“It wasn’t solely about the FA Cup final result. The general sentiment among fans was to continue with him.”
“With Erik, there was an element of emotional decision-making. We are often criticized for being unemotional, and in this case, there was a bit of emotion involved.”
“If you consider the timing of the decision regarding Erik, the new management team had only been in place for a very short time.”
“It became more apparent three months later. We rectified the situation and are now in a different position.”
Ratcliffe has also maintained that while Amorim is “not perfect,” he is the appropriate choice to lead the club moving forward.
He mentioned: “I genuinely like Ruben. He is a very thoughtful individual. Every time I visit the training ground, I talk with Ruben.
“I sit down, have coffee with him, and discuss areas that are not working, and he tells me to f*** off. I appreciate his directness.”
