Onana Attributes Ten Hag’s Manchester United Exit to Lack of Results

Goalkeeper Andre Onana stated that he maintains “a very good relationship” with Erik ten Hag, having played under him at both Ajax and Manchester United, but attributed the Dutchman’s departure from Old Trafford to the team’s performance outcomes. Prior to United’s Europa League match against PAOK on Thursday night (20:00 GMT), Onana commented: “When I heard [Ten Hag] was leaving, I felt bad. It’s not always easy for players to understand when a manager is leaving.” He continued: “At the end of the day, the club has to make a decision and we have to follow [that decision]. I worked with him [at Ajax] and he is a very good manager. I have a very good relationship with him.” Onana further explained: “Why things didn’t work out here is simple – we didn’t win enough games. At a high level, it is not easy and sometimes we all have to pay the price and, unfortunately, [this time] it was him.” He concluded by stating: “We did everything – the players gave everything, worked hard and tried their best – but it just didn’t work.” Manchester United has remained unbeaten in the two matches overseen by interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, who is set to continue in the role until the new permanent manager, Ruben Amorim, assumes control on 11 November.