Dan Ashworth's first words at Man United speak volumes as Erik ten Hag demand made

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has extended his contract at the club until June 2026. The Dutchman's previous deal was due to expire at the end of next season but the club had the option for an additional year that they have activated.

Ten Hag had seemed likely to leave United at the end of last season until the 2-1 FA Cup final win over Manchester City. The Red Devils have now won two trophies since Ten Hag took over at Old Trafford after the League Cup success in 2023.

However, after finishing third in the Premier League in his first season, Ten Hag's side plummeted to eighth last term - their worst finish in 34 years.

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It had appeared as though Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos were going to replace the Dutchman for the 2024/25 season. However, after an end-of-season review, the decision was made to stick with Ten Hag and extend his contract.

Focus will now turn to the summer transfer window and pre-season, which will see United take on Rosenborg, Rangers, Arsenal, Real Betis and Liverpool. There is hope that the club can improve on last season's disappointing league campaign and new sporting director, Dan Ashworth, has set a simple target.

Speaking after Ten Hag's contract extension, he said: "With two trophies in the past two seasons, Erik has reinforced his record as one of the most consistently successful coaches in European football.

"While the club’s review of last season highlighted areas for improvement, it also reached a clear conclusion that Erik was the best partner for us to work with in driving up standards and outcomes.

"This group of players and staff have already shown they are capable of competing and winning at the top level; now we need to do it more consistently.

"With our strengthened football leadership team now in place, we are looking forward to working hand-in-hand with Erik to achieve our shared ambitions for this football club."

After two up-and-down seasons at Old Trafford, it could not be clearer what Ineos now want of Ten Hag as the club seek the consistency to challenge at the top end of the Premier League table.