Erik ten Hag recently spoke out in defense of his role in Manchester United’s recruitment policy, asserting that he has not been the driving force behind targeting players he has previously worked with. Despite the recent influx of former Ajax players joining the club, including Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui, Ten Hag emphasized that each transfer decision is a collaborative effort involving the recruitment team, technical director, and sporting director.
According to Ten Hag, the recruitment process at Manchester United is far from a one-man show. While he acknowledges the influence of player relationships and financial considerations, he made it clear that the final say on transfer deals does not rest solely on his shoulders. This dispels any notion that he is solely responsible for the influx of Ajax talents at Old Trafford.
The acquisition of Matthijs de Ligt for a reported initial fee of £38.5 million has raised eyebrows, given his underwhelming stints at Juventus and Bayern Munich. However, Ten Hag remains steadfast in his belief that De Ligt is one of the best central defenders in the world, pointing to his experience and potential as key factors in his signing. Despite De Ligt’s struggles at Euro 2024, the United manager is confident in the player’s abilities.
As Manchester United gears up for the new Premier League season, Ten Hag is optimistic about the team’s prospects. Following a disappointing start to the previous campaign, the United boss believes that the current squad has the right mix of talent and spirit to compete at the highest level. With De Ligt’s inclusion in the squad for the opening game against Fulham, expectations are high for a strong performance.
Key to Ten Hag’s confidence in the team’s success is the sense of belief and unity within the dressing room. He stressed the importance of a cohesive and fighting spirit among the players, highlighting the strength of the squad as a defining factor in achieving success. As Manchester United looks to bounce back from previous setbacks, Ten Hag’s leadership and vision will play a crucial role in shaping the team’s future.
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