The best lines from Erik ten Hag’s first press conference at Old Trafford
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Dutching base: Erik ten Hag on Manchester United task
Erik ten Hag was unveiled to the media as he began his first official day as manager of Manchester United who are 20/1 to win the Premier League title next season.
Here, we pick out some of the Dutchman’s comments from the wide-ranging Old Trafford press conference.
Ten Hag on United’s squad:
“I’m still in the process of analysing to set conclusions. I’m looking forward to working with these players. The season before this squad was second in the league, so there is huge potential. So I think if we improve, if we can work with them, I think get out more than the results from this season.”
Ten Hag on his immediate focus:
“The initial steps, what we are now doing, is first constructing the staff, constructing the squad and constructing a good plan and first is the pre-season plan, which is what we are now working on.”
▶️🇳🇱
🎥 In conversation with the new manager of Manchester United: Erik ten Hag.#MUFC || #WelcomeErik
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 23, 2022
Ten Hag on his preferred style of play:
“Maybe you have seen Ajax. It’s always players dictating the way of play. I will line up my best team and I will line up my players to get the best out of them, that they can go to the maximum, that they feel comfortable in their role. In the end it’s about getting the success together.”
Ten Hag on when he will speak to United’s players:
“I don’t speak with the players now. They need a break, they need a break to reflect but I’m looking forward, I cannot wait to start (with them). But I want to wait until the end of June with some players and the majority in the first week of July.”
Welcome to your new home, Erik 🔴#MUFC || #WelcomeErik pic.twitter.com/aRRZijRxVa
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 23, 2022
Ten Hag on the appointment of assistants Steve McClaren and Mitchell van der Gaag:
“They both know how to get success because they both win titles, trophies in their careers and that’s why they are here.”
Ten Hag’s first impressions of Manchester:
“I have been in Manchester (before) but this is the first time I’m at Old Trafford. I’m impressed and it feels like my home already. I cannot wait until the first match and the stands are full. It will be an exciting experience. I have seen a lot in the past with big teams from Manchester United.
“They have a lot of generations who are really successful and there is a fantastic ambience always at Old Trafford and I am really looking forward to getting that experience. In every country I have a favourite club. In England, Man United.”
🇳🇱 Erik 🤝 Donny 🇳🇱#MUFC || #WelcomeErik
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 23, 2022
Ten Hag on Donny van de Beek, who he worked with at Ajax:
“We had a fantastic squad in that time at Ajax. I really had a good relationship with him and of course I’m looking forward to meeting him again on the pitch.”
