Erik ten Hag has given an insight into his relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson after the pair were spotted out for dinner together.
Days before Manchester United’s blockbuster clash with Barcelona, Ten Hag was seemingly taking wisdom from the greatest manager in world football and the man who made the Red Devils the biggest club in England. 13 Premier League titles, five FA Cups, two Champions Leagues and so much more – the impossible dream was made possible by him.
Nowadays, the Dutchman has the Old Trafford faithful feeling as optimistic as they have since Ferguson left the club. His style of play, man-management, attitude, promotion of the youth and sheer determination to win trophies is reminiscent of the Scotsman.
He set the tone for his tenure after just his second competitive game in charge of the club. Back in August, United suffered a dismal 4-0 loss to Brentford in the Premier League. The following day Ten Hag called in the players on a scheduled rest day and ordered the squad to run 13.8 kilometres. The difference between him and most other managers? He ran it with them. Setting the precedent straight away of ‘we’re in this together’ – how it should be between the squad and their coach.
Six months on from that lacklustre opening to the campaign, United are the only English team that remain in all four competitions. A trip to Wembley awaits them this Sunday where they can secure their first trophy in five years in the Carabao Cup final. The Reds sit third in the Premier League and are among the favourites to lift the FA Cup and Europa League.
Ten Hag on Sir Alex relationship
In his pre-match press conference yesterday with MUTV, Ten Hag lifted the lift on his meeting with Sir Alex and how important it is for the legend to still be involved with the club.
“It’s massive. I always enjoy it, to speak with people who have a lot of knowledge, a lot of experience. He wants to share it, he wants to help, he wants to support.
“You feel Manchester United is his club, he feels so committed. He wants [to see] that we are doing well. It was a great night and I look forward to the next night with him.”