Manchester United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, is notably absent from Sir Bobby Charlton’s funeral, raising questions among fans and followers. Here’s the explanation behind the Dutchman’s absence.
Sir Bobby Charlton, an iconic figure in English football, passed away last month at the age of 86. With a remarkable career that included 758 appearances for United, Charlton’s funeral is a momentous event, drawing thousands of people to pay their respects in Manchester.
The funeral procession is set to arrive at Old Trafford, allowing fans to bid farewell before the service begins at Manchester Cathedral. A congregation of 1,000 guests, including Charlton’s family, friends, and sporting luminaries, is expected to attend.
Prominent figures such as Sir Alex Ferguson, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Roy Keane, Wayne Rooney, and Ryan Giggs, along with current players Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw, Jonny Evans, and Tom Heaton, are among those paying tribute.
However, Erik ten Hag, the current United boss, is not in attendance. Reports suggest that he has expressed his regrets due to a pre-existing and unalterable personal commitment in the Netherlands.
In the aftermath of Charlton’s passing, Ten Hag acknowledged the football legend’s influence on his players, citing the high standards set by Charlton. The team dedicated their subsequent 2-1 victory against Sheffield United to the memory of Sir Bobby Charlton.
While the Glazer family, United’s controversial owners, have opted not to attend to avoid causing a distraction, the absence of Ten Hag has sparked curiosity. Despite his physical absence, Ten Hag’s words underline the profound impact Charlton’s legacy continues to have on the club, emphasizing the enduring influence of a football giant.