Why Tottenham snubbed Manchester United’s Erik ten Hag two years ago

Tottenham Hotspur had the opportunity to sign current Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag two years ago when they were searching for a replacement for Jose Mourinho. 

However, after interviewing Ten Hag, they opted against hiring him as their boss. 

As per the Telegraph’s James Ducker, Spurs passed on the Dutch football expert due to their concerns over his ‘lack of charisma’ and ‘language difficulties’. 

However, United didn’t share the same view as they appointed him as their manager in 2022. 

And what a brilliant decision that has proved for the Red Devils as Ten Hag has brought about a huge improvement at Old Trafford this season. 

The Premier League giants ended their trophy drought by lifting the Carabao Cup, and they are also set to play Manchester City in the FA Cup final in June. 

Their chances of securing a top-four finish also look promising, as they are level on points with third-placed Newcastle United. 

As for Tottenham, appointing Nuno Espirito Santo instead of Ten Hag didn’t prove to be a great decision.

The Portuguese lasted only four months in the job. Antonio Conte took over the club for the remainder of the campaign, guiding them to a top-four finish. 

The Italian left the London outfit by mutual consent last month after his controversial press conference when he publicly criticised his players. 

Spurs put Cristian Stellini in temporary charge, but the 49-year-old was dismissed following the humiliating 6-1 loss at Newcastle. 

Ryan Mason has now been given the interim manager role as they search for a permanent successor to Conte.