Fabrizio Romano: Ex-United coach set for sensational return to former club

Former Manchester United coach Mitchell van der Gaag is in line to make a return to management, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed. United spell Van der Gaag served as Erik ten Hag’s number two at United before his eventual exit in July 2024. Upon Ten Hag’s appointment as manager, the pair made the move together from Ajax to Old Trafford. The pair had enjoyed a highly successful spell together at Ajax. Van der Gaag helped United win the Carabao Cup during his maiden season in England. The Red Devils also finished in third place in the Premier League. The subsequent campaign was a difficult one in the Premier League but United still managed to win the FA Cup, beating cross-town rivals Manchester City in the final at Wembley. Van der Gaag left United as part of a coaching reshuffle that was implemented by INEOS chairman Sir Jim Ratcliffe. United recruited the likes of Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake to replace Van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy. Popular with United’s players, Van der Gaag was an important figure due to his ability to speak five languages, including English, Spanish, and Portuguese, which proved invaluable for communicating with such a diverse squad. He joined FC Zürich as head coach in May 2025 after leaving United, but was dismissed that October following a short-lived spell. Now, Romano has revealed that the 54-year-old is poised to continue his coaching career at Liga Portugal 2 outfit Maritimo, a club he also played for between 2001 and 2006. He also previously managed the side, first the reserves before stepping up to manage the first team. Van der Gaag update Romano wrote on X, “Marítimo agree to appoint former Manchester United assistant manager Mitchell van der Gaag as new head coach.” “Agreement until June 2028.” 🚨🇵🇹 Marítimo agree to appoint former Manchester United assistant manager Mitchell van der Gaag as new head coach. Agreement until June 2028. pic.twitter.com/dcpnfX3qgN — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 15, 2026 Maritimo were crowned champions of the division and earned automatic promotion to the Primeira Liga ahead of next season. The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Latest Top Stories… Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!