Former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has turned down a job as it would cost him millions, it has been claimed.
Earlier this month, Ten Hag was dismissed by Bayer Leverkusen after only two league matches. The 55-year-old’s termination marked the quickest dismissal in Bundesliga history, surpassing the former record of five matches.
Ten Hag, who had just been appointed as Leverkusen’s manager in the summer, issued a statement criticizing the club’s management for failing to provide him with the “time” or “space” necessary to “execute his vision”.
He also referred to his dismissal as “unprecedented” and remarked, “this was never a relationship founded on mutual trust”.
According to the Dutch publication Telegraaf, just weeks following his dismissal from Leverkusen, Ten Hag has already declined a job offer.
FC Twente reportedly hoped that Ten Hag would assume the management role there, but he has turned them down.
The publication further noted that returning to work too quickly would affect Ten Hag’s €6m (£5.2m) severance package, which amounts to €100,000 (£86,631) per day.
Upon his dismissal by Leverkusen, Ten Hag stated: “The decision by Bayer Leverkusen this morning to place me on a leave of absence was completely unexpected. To part ways with a manager after merely two league matches is unprecedented.
“This summer, numerous key players who contributed to past successes departed from the squad. Constructing a new, cohesive team is a meticulous process that necessitates both time and trust.
“A new coach deserves the opportunity to implement his vision, establish the standards, shape the squad, and leave his imprint on the style of play.
“I started this job with full conviction and energy, but unfortunately the management was not willing to grant me the time and trust I needed, which I deeply regret. I feel this was never a relationship based on mutual trust.
“Throughout my career, every season I have been able to see through to the end as a coach has brought success. Clubs that placed their trust in me have been rewarded with success and silverware.”
Leverkusen had picked up just one point from their first two league games. They have since replaced Ten Hag with Kasper Hjulmand.
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