Having been named the new manager of Manchester United, Erik ten Hag thinks it is a tremendous honor. In the early hours of Thursday morning, the club officially confirmed his appointment, with the current Ajax leader due to take over as manager at the conclusion of the current season.

In following in the footsteps of his compatriot Louis van Gaal, Ten Hag, 52, will become only the second Dutchman in history to manage Manchester United. To ensure a smooth transition between the two managers and to get off to a fast start ahead of a crucial off-season, United were anxious for their new boss to be in place before the opening of the summer transfer market on June 1.

At the moment, Ten Hag says his immediate emphasis is on helping Ajax win their third Eredivisie title in a row, before shifting his attention to his new post at the end of the current season.

"It is an enormous honor to have been chosen manager of Manchester United, and I am tremendously thrilled about the challenge that lies ahead," he said "In an official statement, he explained himself to the club. "It is my mission to build a team capable of delivering the results that this wonderful club and its supporters deserve.

After these fantastic years, it will be painful for me to leave Ajax, but I can assure our supporters of my total devotion and attention on bringing this season to a triumphant conclusion before I transfer to Man Utd."