In a move that has surprised the global football community, former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is stepping away from the touchline to take on a senior management role. He has been appointed as the Technical Director of FC Twente, with the transition effective from February 1, 2026.
While it remains unclear if this represents a permanent retirement from the dugout or a temporary sabbatical from coaching, the shift marks a significant strategic pivot for the 55-year-old tactician.
A Homecoming to Enschede
Ten Hag is returning to the club where both his playing and coaching careers began. He will initially join the club’s football organization in February to facilitate a smooth handover before officially succeeding the retiring Jan Streuer for the 2026–2027 season.
His contract is set to run until mid-2028, giving him a significant window to reshape the club’s long-term sporting vision.
Vision for the Foundation
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Ten Hag highlighted the sentimental and professional importance of the move:
“I think it’s wonderful and special to return to FC Twente… My football and coaching careers began here,” Ten Hag stated. “I want to strengthen the technical foundation so the club can sustainably realize its potential.”
Context of the Appointment
Ten Hag’s tenure at Manchester United ended in 2024 following a period of mixed results, despite securing domestic silverware. By taking the Technical Director role at Twente, he follows in the footsteps of other elite managers who have successfully transitioned into “upstairs” roles to oversee recruitment, academy development, and tactical philosophy across entire organizations.
FC Twente, currently competing at the higher end of the Eredivisie, views Ten Hag’s appointment as a massive coup. His experience at the highest levels of European football is expected to bring a level of elite standard-setting and global networking that could elevate the club’s standing in the Netherlands and beyond.
Source: Goal
Related Posts:
Callum McFarlane Permanently Joins Chelsea First-Team Staff Under New Boss Liam Rosenior
From Freetown to the Bridge: Chelsea’s Deepening Sierra Leone Connection
