Erik ten Hag watches two of his old sides back in action in the Netherlands – as the Dutchman enjoys some downtime after Man United sacking

Erik ten Hag made a surprise appearance watching former club Ajax on Sunday in the wake of being sacked by Manchester United, sparking suggestions he could be set to return to the club.

The Dutchman’s reign as United boss ended after United’s controversial 2-1 defeat against West Ham and was dismissed by INEOS chiefs who have since named Ruben Amorim as his successor.

Ten Hag’s two-and-a-half years at Old Trafford yielded FA Cup and Carabao Cup honours but his side underperformed in the league, especially in his final full season, which ended with club finishing eighth – their lowest-ever position in the Premier League. 

The former swiftly jetted back home to the Netherlands following his dismissal, attended a Dutch Eredivisie clash between Heracles Almelo and NAC Breda and has now made an appearance at Ajax.

Coincidentally, Ajax’s trip to FC Twente was the second time Ten Hag has watched the club he played for with Twente previously earning a draw at Old Trafford in one of his final games in charge.

Ten Hag had his contract terminated by Manchester United at the end of October

Ten Hag was spotted by cameras making his way to hospitality seating at the De Grolsch Veste stadium and Ajax supporters have beamed at seeing their former boss watching on.

The 54-year-old previously won three Eredivisie titles with Ajax between 2018 and 2022 along with two KNVB Cups and impressive performances in the Champions League before leaving to join United.

Ruben Amorim will begin his new role as Manchester United manager on Monday morning

However, Ajax have endured a torrid period since his departure with the club finishing fifth in the Dutch top-flight last season and already behind in the current title race.

Ajax announced former Nice manager Francesco Farioli on a three-year contract running until June 2027 in the summer, but would likely be well-backed by fans if they chose to re-appoint Ten Hag.

The club even celebrated Ten Hag’s presence at Sunday’s clash against Twente, posting a picture of him on their official X account alongside the caption: ‘Erik’ with a love heart attached.

Meanwhile, the Dutchman’s United replacement, Amorim, will officially begin his new role on Monday and will get to work with his squad throughout the upcoming international break.