ERIK TEN HAG was introduced to the media for the first time as the new Manchester United boss this afternoon.
The Dutchman was in attendance to watch United’s final game of this torrid Premier League season.
And he wouldn’t have enjoyed what he witnessed as the Red Devils were beaten 1-0 by Crystal Palace.
Find out all Ten Hag had to say in our live blog which includes, Harry Maguire captaincy situation, Ralf Rangnick’s role at the club and Cristiano Ronaldo’s future.
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Stay up to date with all the latest from Old Trafford…
Juve favourites to win Pogba hunt
Juventus are favourites ahead of PSG to sign Paul Pogba – with Manchester City and Real Madrid next on the list.
The French World Cup winner, 29, seems sure to exit Manchester United for a second time on a free transfer this summer.
The midfielder’s final United appearance lasted just eight minutes as he was injured early on in the 4-0 defeat at Liverpool on April 19.
But old club Juve are still thought to be keen.
Betfair odds on Pogba’s next club:
- Juventus – 6/4
- PSG – 9/4
- Manchester City – 6/1
- Real Madrid – 9/1
- Barcelona – 14/1
- Newcastle – 33/1
- Inter Milan – 33/1
- Liverpool – 66/1
De Gea warns Utd flops
David de Gea blasted Manchester United’s under-performing stars and told anyone not willing to fight for their place to leave.
The Red Devils lost 1-0 at Crystal Palace on the final day of the season to round-off their miserable campaign.
Incoming boss Erik ten Hag was in attendance at Selhurst Park as the club recorded their lowest-ever points tally in the Premier League era.
Fortunately for United they were spared the embarrassment of playing in next season’s Conference League as West Ham’s defeat at Brighton ensured they would be in the Europa League.
But keeper De Gea told MUTV: “It’s the same feeling.
“The level we have shown in the last three or four months isn’t enough to win a Premier League match, we were sloppy, we lost some easy balls around our box, it’s impossible to win the games.
“I just want to be positive, to forget about this season.
“The new manager [Erik ten Hag] was in the stands, so that’s a good signal. I hope things will get better for next season.”
Six of the worst
Awful season ends in defeat
Manchester United clung on to sixth spot and qualified for the Europa League on the final day of the Premier League season, but that shouldn’t disguise what has been a terrible campaign for the Red Devils.
Indeed, 2021-22 was summed up by the feeble way in which they went down to a 1-0 defeat at Crystal Palace.
The loss in South London was their SIXTH AWAY LOSS IN A ROW, a Premier League first for the club and their worst run on the road since March 1981.
- Crystal Palace 1-0 Man Utd
- Brighton 4-0 Man Utd
- Arsenal 3-1 Man Utd
- Liverpool 4-0 Man Utd
- Everton 1-0 Man Utd
- Man City 4-1 Man Utd
Erik thrilled by Donny reunion
Erik ten Hag is excited at the prospect of linking up again with Donny van de Beek, who he coached to great effect at Ajax.
And the new United boss gave the greatest indication yet that the midfielder has a future at Old Trafford after being largely overlooked since he joined the club.
We had a fantastic squad in that time at Ajax. I really had a good relationship with him, and, of course, I am looking forward to meeting him again on the pitch.
Erik ten Hag
Ten Hag on Cristiano Ronaldo
Manchester United’s new manager has also batted away questions regarding Cristiano Ronaldo’s Old Trafford future.
When asked what the Portuguese legend could bring to the Red Devils next season, the Dutch coach kept his cards close to his chest – although said he would be expecting more of what the 37-year-old does best.
[Ronaldo can bring] goals! But first I will talk with Cristiano before I talk with you…
Erik ten Hag
Ten Hag’s assistants are winners
Erik ten Hag has expressed his delight at sealing deals to bring Steve McClaren and Mitchell van der Gaag in as his assistant coaches.
They both know how to get success. They have both won titles and trophies in their careers and that’s why they’re here. Recruitment is an important part and I like to work with them.
Erik ten Hag
Ten Hag on Maguire captaincy
The new Manchester United boss has also been discussing Harry Maguire’s position within the club, both as a first choice central defender and as first team captain.
And while Ten Hag refused to be drawn on a definitive response to whether Maguire will keep the captaincy, he did state that he was excited by the prospect of working with him.
Next season is a different season. He’s done a great job, and he’s a great player. He’s achieved a lot with his contribution to Manchester United so I’m looking forward to working with him.
Erik ten Hag
Ten Hag on Rangnick’s role
New Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has hinted that Ralf Rangnick’s new consultancy role was a decision made by the Old Trafford hierarchy.
However, the Dutchman suggested that he would welcome the opinion of others before ultimately making his own decisions.
It’s part of my analysis. I analyse by myself, I observe, I speak to a lot of people, but finally I’ll draw my own line. [Rangnick’s role] is on the club.
Erik ten Hag
Ten Hag: No risk involved
Erik ten Hag says there is no worry that his reputation could be tainted by the Manchester United job.
Instead, he hopes to build on the history of the club, and create more memories for the fans.
I don’t see it as a risk. This club has a great history, and now let’s make a future. I’m really excited to do that.
Erik ten Hag
Ten Hag: Our plan is huge
Erik ten Hag says he has arrived at Old Trafford with a plan, but it’s not one that can be fully detailed in a short press conference.
The Dutchman intends to create a new dynamic within the club, and take advantage of the potential within the squad.
Our plan is huge. We have a strategy and a concept, and we will work on that. As manager I have to bring something to the club, a dynamic. If you want to be top you have to demand. That is what we will do. I have good feeling from people around me now, and it’s about getting the plan done.
I’m still in the process of analysing. I’m looking forward to working with these players. The season before, this squad was second in the Premier League and there’s huge potential.
Erik ten Hag
Ten Hag: This is my home
Erik ten Hag’s first press conference as Manchester United boss is underway, and the Dutchman has begun by greeting the media, and reminding them that he is here to stay – and here to win.
I’m happy to meet you all, and I’m really excited to be here. It was a really warm welcome from the club. I’m looking forward to working with you all. This is my home now and I want to achieve success.
Erik ten Hag
Ten Hag to meet media
New Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is preparing for his first press conference at Old Trafford, and we’re ready to bring you live updates.
In the meantime, how’s this for one of the season’s most surprising statistics: United spent more time at the top of the Premier League during 2021-22 than second-placed Liverpool.
Jurgen Klopp’s Reds missed out on the title after three Manchester City goals in the final 14 minutes of the season, but only spent 11 days at the top of the table during the season.
United, in contrast, were in first position for 14 days across the campaign.
Ten Hag knows his history
Incoming Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag is well are of the club’s notable history, and is vowing to make some of his own.
The 52-year-old revealed that he has always been impressed by United’s fighting spirit, and hopes to rekindle that kind of belief in the coming seasons.
I know the history of Man United, I know the big times and the audience, the vibe that can be around Old Trafford. I watched them in their big times, when Sir Alex Ferguson was manager during the really successful times when they won titles and were dominating Europe.
But also before Sir Alex, Man United was a really big club, and I know names like Busby and Charlton that gave United a presence to the outside world from winning and winning in a spectacular way, winning so they entertain people. What stays with me is there was always a fighting culture. They fight together and they get success.
Erik ten Hag
Erik: United squad has potential
Erik ten Hag insists that he will bring a new philosophy and outlook to Old Trafford, but does not expect to oversee a huge overhaul of the current squad.
The former Ajax boss believes there is plenty of potential within the current group of players, and he is excited by the prospect of working with them to unlock it.
First we must accept the current situation but also know that one year ago, this club, this team was second in the Premier League. There’s potential and now it’s up to us to get that out.
It’s a process, it will take time but I’m convinced we will come to that point where we get success. We have to work hard and it has to be based on the right philosophy and strategy.
We will have a break and then start pre-season on June 27. In certain positions we want to renew the squad, but as I said, one year ago this squad was second in the league, so there is potential and I’m really looking forward to co-operating with the squad
Erik ten Hag
United job a ‘big challenge’
Erik ten Hag was at Selhurst Park yesterday to watch his new team, and today will meet the media for the first time as Manchester United manager.
Ahead of his midday press conference, the Dutch coach has been speaking to MUTV and has revealed the reasons why he decided to take on the Old Trafford job.
The word is exciting. I really look forward to doing this job, at this club with massive history, and we want to restore it to where it belongs. First of all, we want to make the fans proud. Second, of course, we are in this moment, and the current situation is obviously not that good. It’s a big challenge.
I want to build and construct a team who are battling for each other, who are unified, and who will get results. We are playing in the Theatre of Dreams. We want to entertain. But in the end, the intention is to play fantastic football. If we can’t play fantastic football, we still have to win.
Erik ten Hag
Bruno: We will bounce back
Bruno Fernandes has become the latest Manchester United player to take to social media to express his regret at their incredibly disappointing season.
However, the Portuguese international revealed that he is more convinced than ever that the Red Devils will rally and be ready to challenge next term.
He tweeted: “Season over and none of our goals was accomplished. I know that individually and collectively it was not at the level that we should be.
“For all of our fans once again you have showed to me why this is one of the biggest clubs in the world and that is because even in seasons like that you keep being behind us.
“I learned something really important since I came to the club and that is Manchester United always bounce back.”
Breaking: McClaren back as coach
Steve McClaren’s return to Old Trafford has been confirmed with Manchester United announcing this morning the appointment of Erik ten Hag’s coaches.
McClaren was previously assistant to Sir Alex Ferguson for United’s memorable treble season in 1998-99, and helped the Red Devils win the Premier League in each of his three seasons with the club before departing in 2001.
McClaren links up again with Ten Hag, having previously worked together at Twente in the Netherlands.
Also arriving as part of Ten Hag’s backroom team is Mitchell van der Gaag.
Credit: @ManUtd Twitter Awful season ends in defeat
Manchester United clung on to sixth spot and qualified for the Europa League on the final day of the Premier League season, but that shouldn’t disguise what has been a terrible campaign for the Red Devils.
Indeed, 2021-22 was summed up by the feeble way in which they went down to a 1-0 defeat at Crystal Palace.
The loss in South London was their sixth in a row away from home, a Premier League first for the club and their worst run on the road since March 1981.
- Crystal Palace 1-0 Man Utd
- Brighton 4-0 Man Utd
- Arsenal 3-1 Man Utd
- Liverpool 4-0 Man Utd
- Everton 1-0 Man Utd
- Man City 4-1 Man Utd
United confirm Cavani departure
Edinson Cavani signed off on his Manchester United career by playing 90 minutes at Crystal Palace yesterday.
The Uruguayan filled in for the absent Cristiano Ronaldo in what was his 59th appearance for the Red Devils.
The 35-year-old has scored 19 goals during his time in England, but is now searching for a new challenge.
Ralf Rangnick confirmed the striker’s departure after the game.
Speaking to MUTV, the interim United boss said: “Out of our starting XI, there will be ten – apart from Edi Cavani – who will still be playing for this club next season.”
Good morning Manchester United fans
Ralf Rangnick received intelligence from Russia during his stint as Manchester United interim manager, reports suggest.
According to The Athletic, Rangnick was in constant contact with former Lokomotiv Moscow assistant Lars Kornetka during his six-month stint at Old Trafford.
The German tactician wanted to bring Kornetka with him to Manchester but he stayed in Russia due to commitments with Lokomotiv.
David De Gea has revealed his plans to stay at Old Trafford for next season.
“I want to forget this season and be 100% ready for next season. It has been horrible,” he told BBC Sport.
“Ones who want to stay, stay at the club. Ones that don’t want to stay go out. You don’t have to stay”.
Despite defeat at Crystal Palace, United managed to make the Europa League by virtue of West Ham’s defeat at Brighton, after the Hammers failed to capitalise on Rangnick’s men falling to a loss.
Becks joins Hollywood royalty
Man Utd legend David Beckham joined Ryan Reynolds, Will Ferrell and Blake Lively to cheer on Wrexham in the FA Trophy final.
However, their presence couldn’t stop the Welsh side fall to a 1-0 defeat to Bromley.
Wrexham now switch their attentions to the National League playoffs.
Will they get promoted?
Credit: Reuters
Bailly row
According to reports, Man Utd recalled Eric Bailly from Ivory Coast when staff discovered he was in a different location that was agreed upon.
Bailly returned home late from the African Cup of Nations, and injured too.
The Athletic reporter Laurie Whitwell says Red Devils boss Ralf Rangnick tore into him when he returned in front of the whole squad.
Russian intelligence
Ralf Rangnick received intelligence from Russia during his stint as Manchester United interim manager, reports suggest.
According to The Athletic, Rangnick was in constant contact with former Lokomotiv Moscow assistant Lars Kornetka during his six-month stint at Old Trafford.
The German tactician wanted to bring Kornetka with him to Manchester but he stayed in Russia due to commitments with Lokomotiv.
The two men have been working together for more than a decade at Hoffenheim, Schalke and RB Leipzig.
Rangnick rates his fellow German’s insight so highly that he has been tapping into him since the day he took over the Red Devils’ hotseat.
Kornetka would talk to the 63-year-old’s assistant Ewan Sharp on match days and the now former United caretaker boss always checked his phone at half-time.
Real deal
Real Madrid have reportedly opened talks with Monaco star Aurelien Tchouameni in a blow to a string of Premier League sides.
Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea are among the teams who had been targeting the highly-rated midfielder.
Madrid will be hunting for high-profile summer signings after being snubbed by Kylian Mbappe on Saturday.
And journalist Santi Aouna reports that the Spanish club has been in contact and ready to make an offer.
Ronaldo stat
Cristiano Ronaldo was MIA today for Man Utd in their defeat at Crystal Palace.
The Red Devils crashed to a 1-0 loss at Selhurst Park.
Incredibly, that’s 10 games he has missed this season – and even more astonishing is the fact United haven’t won any of those matches without him.
Not so much a “problem” then.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
