In a recent interview with BBC Sport during Manchester United’s pre-season tour in Los Angeles, Erik ten Hag reflected on his turbulent season and the club’s ongoing transformation. The discussion comes after a dramatic FA Cup victory on 25 May, where Manchester United triumphed over Manchester City. This win was notable not only for its significance but also due to the backdrop of speculation about Ten Hag’s future.
Reflection on the Review Process
Ten Hag described the review process that followed the FA Cup final as a distant memory. “It feels like it is years ago,” he said. “I left it behind and I am looking forward.” He emphasized his commitment to the project and his focus on winning trophies. Despite the uncertainty, Ten Hag remained focused on planning for the upcoming season, taking time to rest after a demanding year.
Adapting to New Structures
The manager acknowledged the need for change, given United’s previous lack of success over six years. He welcomed the new club structures and leadership, which include fresh faces and improved squad depth. “We are building, we have to keep building and making progress,” Ten Hag stated. He is optimistic that these changes will strengthen the club’s foundation and improve their overall performance.
Fan Support and Team Unity
Ten Hag expressed his gratitude for the support from fans, noting how crucial their backing has been for the team. “It brings fight to the stadium and fight to our players on the pitch,” he said. He stressed the importance of unity and collective effort, both on and off the pitch, in achieving the club’s ambitions.
Aspirations for the Season
When asked about the possibility of winning another trophy this season, Ten Hag remained focused on the club’s success rather than personal accolades. “I definitely believe it is possible to win another trophy,” he said, but emphasized that the club’s objectives take precedence over individual achievements. He highlighted the importance of aligning everyone’s efforts towards a common goal.
Squad Depth and Future Signings
Regarding potential signings, Ten Hag confirmed that the club plans to make further improvements to the squad, especially in light of recent injuries to Yoro and Hojlund. “It is important to have squad depth, especially in a season where survival of the fittest will be crucial,” he noted.
Importance of a Strong Start
Reflecting on the importance of starting the season well, Ten Hag acknowledged that while a strong beginning can set a positive tone, the end of the season is what ultimately matters. He recalled a successful first season despite a challenging start and reiterated that while a good start is beneficial, the focus should remain on achieving success throughout the season.
In summary, Ten Hag’s comments reflect a forward-looking approach as he navigates Manchester United through a period of significant change and seeks to build on the successes of the past season.
