It has been a whirlwind fortnight in European football, with an unprecedented series of managerial dismissals. In the space of just two weeks, three former Manchester United managers — Ole Gunnar Solskjær, José Mourinho, and Erik ten Hag — have all been sacked by their respective clubs.
This shocking sequence has reignited debates about the challenges faced by high-profile coaches once they leave Old Trafford.
Ole Gunnar Solskjær – Beşiktaş
Ole Gunnar Solskjær was the first to face the axe, losing his job at Beşiktaş in late August 2025.
- Reason for dismissal: A painful exit from the UEFA Conference League at the hands of Lausanne.
- The Turkish club acted swiftly, sacking him just hours after the elimination.
👉 Read full story on TalkSport
José Mourinho – Fenerbahçe
A week later, José Mourinho was sacked by Fenerbahçe.
- Reason for dismissal: The Istanbul side failed to qualify for the Champions League group stages, losing to Benfica in the playoffs.
- Mourinho’s departure came just two games into the new season, despite his reputation and experience.
Erik ten Hag – Bayer Leverkusen
The latest casualty is Erik ten Hag, dismissed by Bayer Leverkusen on September 1, 2025.
- Reason for dismissal: A poor Bundesliga start — a 2-1 defeat to Hoffenheim and a 3-3 draw with Werder Bremen — prompted the club to end his tenure after just two league matches.
- The decision came only days after Mourinho’s sacking, making it a nightmare week for former United managers.