The "Philosophy" has a new home. On Tuesday, January 6, 2026, FC Twente officially announced that former Manchester United and Ajax boss Erik ten Hag will return to the club as their new Technical Director.
This marks a major career pivot for the 55-year-old, who has spent the last decade in the dugout. After a tumultuous 2025 that saw him dismissed from Manchester United and later sacked by Bayer Leverkusen after just three matches—the fastest dismissal in Bundesliga history—Ten Hag is returning to his roots in Enschede.
The Full-Circle Return
Ten Hag’s history with FC Twente is deep-rooted. He began his professional playing career at the club in 1989 and enjoyed three separate stints there as a player, famously captaining them to a KNVB Cup win in 2001.
Start Date: He will officially join the club’s football organization on February 1, 2026.
The Transition: Ten Hag will initially work alongside the legendary Jan Streuer, before officially succeeding him as Technical Director for the start of the 2026/27 season.
Contract: He has signed a deal that runs until mid-2028.
Ten Hag’s "Strategic Vision"
In his first official statement since the appointment, Ten Hag expressed his emotional connection to the club:
"I think it's wonderful and special to return to FC Twente, where I've been a supporter at Het Diekman since I was a young boy.
My football and coaching careers began here. I want to strengthen the technical foundation so the club can sustainably realize its potential as a regional flagship."
Why the Change from Coaching?
Industry insiders suggest this move mirrors Jurgen Klopp’s transition into a leadership role at Red Bull. After the high-intensity pressures of
the Premier League and Bundesliga, Ten Hag’s "elite sports culture" and "scouting expertise" are seen as the perfect fit for a directorial role where he can build a long-term project without the weekly scrutiny of the touchline.