Former Red Nicky Butt has had his say on Erik ten Hag’s first season in charge of Manchester United and the expectations of the manager.
The treble winner spoke to Sky Sports to assess the influence of the Dutchman on his former team.
Ten Hag has had somewhat of an instant impact on the Reds; he has them sitting third in the Premier League and they are the only English side to remain in all four competitions.
The prospect of silverware has become increasingly likely in recent weeks, as United are in the Carabao Cup semi-finals. They will play a two-legged tie against Nottingham Forest, a side they convincingly beat 3-0 earlier in the season, however, they could face an in-form Newcastle in the final. United have only drawn to the Magpies so far this season.
Nicky Butt’s verdict on Ten Hag
In his chat with Sky, Butt was asked his thoughts on the “Erik ten Hag revolution”, and he responded: “It’s great. I think looking at what it’s been like over the last few years, we’ve struggled if I’m being honest, to compete with the top two or three. Now, they’re getting there, they’re competing. It looks from an outsider’s point of view that they’ve got a real comradery there, they’ve got a coach that they respect and they know who’s in charge.
“When I was playing at the club we knew who the boss was. He’d walk in and everyone would sit up and training would be perfection. I don’t know whether they’ve had that or not for a long time, but he looks like he’s a strong character who knows what he wants in his team and from his players. Yeah, it’s looking really well now.”
On whether or not the manager needs to win a trophy this season, he added: “I don’t think so, no. I think it’s just something that’s happening and being said now ‘cause of where they are, they’re in a challenging position. I think if they get in the top four he’s had an amazing season. Then he’s got to kick on next year and the year after that cause ultimately, at Man United, you’ve got to win. We’ve not won for a while.
🗣️ "Right now it's about getting back into the mix"
Nicky Butt says Erik ten Hag doesn't need to win a trophy with the club to consider this season a success. pic.twitter.com/wn4Cc9ma0d
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 18, 2023
“Right now, it’s about getting back into the mix, getting back into Champions League football, getting players signed and getting a real squad that can go and challenge over the next two or three years.”
Footage courtesy of Sky Sports.
