Diogo Dalot has assessed the influence Erik ten Hag has had on his form for Manchester United.
The 23-year-old has earned his place as a regular in the starting lineup under the Dutchman, starting 21 matches across the campaign so far.
His performances have improved significantly this season and he has played an invaluable role in the club’s run of results. United now sit joint-third in the Premier League, remain in all competitions and look a force to be reckoned with. Ten Hag boasts high quality across the pitch, with competition in most positions to keep players fighting for their place.
Defensively the team have been outstanding too; they have picked up 12 clean sheets between them – outdoing last season’s tally in only January.
Dalot has also established his place in the Portugal national team and made three appearances at the World Cup last year.
Dalot on the boss
In an interview with MUTV today, Dalot weighed in on the season so far and the manager’s impact on his form. He said: “ A lot, as you can imagine. Since I arrived in pre-season, I knew I had to be at my best level to play the way that he wants to play. I think I fit right in with the type of play and the things he asks me to do on the pitch. I think it suits the way that I like to see football so it helps.
“Obviously, he’s a very good manager. He wants every player available and every player at the best level physically so I have to push myself more. Especially more in pre-season because I knew I had to be very good physically to be able to play the way that he wants. And then it’s just about making progress, trying to learn, listening to what he’s asking you to do and I think, not only me, but you can see the progress in a lot of players, especially collectively, but he is obviously one of the biggest parts of that.”
