AS Roma is reportedly in discussions to appoint Erik ten Hag as the new head coach following the recent dismissal of Ivan Jurić. The Croatian manager, brought in to stabilize the club, was let go on November 10, 2024, following a 2–3 home defeat to Bologna—a result that left Roma twentieth in the Europa League standings and precariously close to the relegation zone in Serie A. Ten Hag, recently released by Manchester United, is seen as a prime candidate to guide the club through this critical period.
A Tumultuous Period for Roma and Manchester United
The 2024 season has been challenging for Roma, whose poor results in both domestic and European competitions have put them on the brink of a full-scale crisis. Jurić’s tenure, which was meant to be a stabilizing phase, fell short of expectations, culminating in a string of disappointing results that forced the club’s board to seek new leadership.
Meanwhile, Erik ten Hag’s own journey took a challenging turn. The Dutchman, once celebrated for his success with Ajax and his ambitions at Manchester United, was dismissed from his role at Old Trafford on October 28, 2024, after a series of poor performances left United lagging in the Premier League. Ten Hag’s departure marked the end of a turbulent chapter in his career, yet it also opened up new opportunities, with Roma viewing him as a potentially transformative hire.
Why Ten Hag Could Be the Answer for AS Roma?
Ten Hag’s tactical acumen and experience in European football could provide the much-needed structure and strategy that AS Roma seeks. Renowned for his tenure at Ajax, where he led the team to multiple league titles and a Champions League semifinal in 2019, ten Hag is known for his high-intensity, possession-based style. His ability to work with young talent and build cohesive, disciplined squads has been praised across the continent.
Roma’s struggles this season have underscored the need for a manager with a strong tactical vision and the ability to rally players during challenging times. Ten Hag, who faced significant pressures and high expectations in the Premier League, may offer exactly that. His style would represent a departure from Jurić’s approach, potentially bringing the discipline and energy that the club desperately needs to rise from its current position near the relegation zone.
Roma’s Dire Need for Stability and Fan Expectations
Roma fans are already abuzz with the possibility of ten Hag’s arrival, seeing him as a potential savior who can turn the season around. Many supporters hope his appointment would help Roma bridge the gap between themselves and Serie A’s top clubs, such as Juventus and Inter Milan, who have consistently outperformed them in recent years.
Erik Ten Haag. This is your Roma team as you would transition into a 3 defender system that you currently don’t have the players for. You would need 2 CBs and 1CM. You do not short attacking options with Artem Dovbyk yet to find his feet in Italy pic.twitter.com/k31ZWhMCFw
— its KP4 i fear Kciredd Roderick Pablonn (@1kcireddpablonn) November 12, 2024
With his deep tactical insight and adaptability, ten Hag would face the challenge of instilling a winning mindset and consistency in a team that has struggled for form. Given Roma’s current league standing and the pressure from fans and club management alike, the new manager will need to make swift adjustments to steer the club back to stability.
Looking Forward: The Ten Hag Era at Roma?
While no official announcement has been made, Erik ten Hag’s potential arrival would signal a new direction for Roma, aiming to re-establish the club as a competitive force domestically and in European competitions. For a fanbase eager for change and a team that requires decisive leadership, ten Hag could be the ideal choice.
AS Roma’s upcoming weeks will likely be pivotal in shaping the remainder of their season. If ten Hag is indeed appointed, his experience and tactical philosophy could bring the transformation Roma needs to restore their competitive edge and revive their season.
