Erik ten Hag interview: Manchester United manager slams media for overblown criticism | OneFootball

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is confident of remaining in charge next season.

In an exclusive interview with Voetbal International, the Dutchman claimed:

“They (INEOS) said they want to change everything and that they want to rebuild with me. This is what they told me directly.”

Discussing the season’s difficulties, Ten Hag highlighted the impact of injuries on United’s performance.

“Not long ago, I had to start my 15th different centre-back duo of the season. We have had 33 different defensive lines this season,” he complained.

The manager pointed out that key players like Casemiro and Rasmus Hojlund suffered multiple injuries, affecting team consistency.

Ten Hag also addressed the unrealistic expectations placed on his team. “Manchester United won the league last in 2013, 11 years ago. But still, they expect us to win every game while competing at the top. This club is not ready for that.”

He mentioned the noise outside the club and the pressure from the media, saying: “The pundits in England want to score, they want to show they are worth the money, and for that, Manchester United are an easy prey.”

Despite the challenges, Ten Hag remains focused on the future. “INEOS will change things in the club, and certain projects have already started. Carrington will be completely destroyed, and a new training ground will come.”

He also stressed the need for new signings, “We need to sign an extra striker in the summer. And if we can sign another central midfielder and a replacement for Varane, things will look good again.”

Ten Hag’s resolve is clear: “Let me be clear. It has been bad. It has been cr-p. But despite everything, we are going to play an FA Cup Final.”

If Ten Hag has already been informed he will be leaving the club after today’s final, he certainly did not show any sign of it in this interview.

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