Erik ten Hag is back in football after a turbulent year, with FC Twente confirming the former Manchester United manager as their new technical director in a homecoming that brings him back to the club where his professional journey began.
The 55 year old has been out of work since September after being dismissed just three competitive matches into the 2025 26 season with Bayer Leverkusen, bringing a brief and difficult spell in Germany to an abrupt end before his decision to return to the Netherlands.
A New Chapter After a Short Leverkusen Spell
Ten Hag’s time at Leverkusen was among the shortest managerial reigns in recent Bundesliga history, but it did little to dull interest in his services. He was linked with several roles soon after his exit, including a possible move to Premier League strugglers Wolves and a highly discussed return to Ajax, an option he ultimately declined.
Despite those opportunities, Ten Hag chose a different path, opting for a long term technical role rather than an immediate return to the dugout.
Twente Confirm Long Term Appointment
FC Twente confirmed on Tuesday that Ten Hag will begin working with the club from February, before officially taking over as technical director at the start of the 2026 27 season. He has signed a contract that runs until mid 2028 and will succeed Jan Streuer, who is set to retire at the end of the current campaign.
The club stated that Ten Hag will already be involved in the football organisation ahead of the new season, ensuring a smooth transition and continuity in planning.
Why This Move Matters for Twente
Ten Hag’s appointment represents a significant strategic step for Twente as they look to strengthen their football structure and long term competitiveness. His background in youth development, academy leadership, and elite level team building aligns with the club’s ambition to establish itself as a stable force in Dutch football.
For Ten Hag, the move offers a chance to reset away from the pressures of frontline management while shaping a club deeply connected to his identity.
A Familiar Environment and Strong Foundations
The return also carries emotional weight. Ten Hag began his professional playing career at Twente and later held several coaching roles there, including youth coach, head of academy, and assistant coach. The club has remained a constant reference point throughout his career, even during his time at Manchester United.
That connection was evident during the 2024 25 Europa League, when United were drawn against Twente in the group stage, a 1 1 draw at Old Trafford that proved to be one of Ten Hag’s final matches in charge.
Key Decisions and Behind the Scenes Influence
Twente’s general manager Dominique Scholten highlighted Ten Hag’s extensive experience and enduring bond with the club, noting months of discussions that revealed a shared ambition to further professionalise the football organisation.
The appointment follows earlier structural changes, including the arrival of Tim Gilissen, as Twente continue to raise internal standards behind the scenes.
From Touchline to Technical Leadership
While there had been speculation that Ten Hag could return as head coach, especially after he was seen attending an Eredivisie clash between Twente and Ajax earlier in the season, the club ultimately opted to deploy his expertise in a broader, long term capacity.
The role will place Ten Hag at the heart of recruitment strategy, youth development, and overall football philosophy rather than matchday management.
Looking Ahead
Ten Hag’s return to FC Twente marks a pivotal moment for both parties. For the club, it is an investment in experience and institutional knowledge. For Ten Hag, it is an opportunity to rebuild momentum and influence Dutch football from a strategic position.
As Twente prepare for the next phase of their development, the focus now shifts to how quickly Ten Hag’s vision can translate into sustainable progress on and off the pitch.
