Erik ten Hag is gearing up to lead his side into one of the most intriguing Premier League seasons at Manchester United, with a new era under the Dutchman off to perfection after pre-season.
The appointment of Ten Hag has been met with excitement from the United faithful and a promising pre-season campaign has lifted spirits after a disastrous 2021/22 season.
Rayo Vallecano make the trip to Manchester this weekend and on Sunday, the Spanish outfit represent United’s final test of the summer before next week’s Premier League curtain-raiser against Brighton.
Now, it has been revealed that ahead of United’s two games at Old Trafford, Ten Hag has completed a major change to the historic stadium.
Read more: Ten Hag explains Sancho absence ahead of friendly vs Atletico Madrid
As revealed by the official Manchester United website, from this season, the two dugouts at Old Trafford have been swapped – meaning that United will now occupy the east dugout, formerly held by the visiting sides.
The change means that United will now be closer to the tunnel, but more importantly, to the Stretford End and the singing section. The new Old Trafford layout will be used for the first time against Rayo Vallecano.
SN’s verdict…
Ten Hag is incredibly meticulous in his ways and from the outside, it may seem like an insignificant change but the Dutchman will know exactly what he wants to get out of it.
He’s the first manager to propose this adjustment but ultimately, he will be judged on how his team performs on the pitch. A winning start to life at United is crucial.
Ten Hag will face Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool in the third game of the season and securing two wins before that would ease the pressure.
