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      Man Utd are at rock bottom but at least they’ve taken first steps to recovery with Erik ten Hag appointment

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      A LEAP of faith. A shot in the dark. A major dose of Dutch courage administered to a club hung-over from humiliation.A manager with no experience of operating in the big five leagues taking over a shattered ruin — a giant brought to its knees.
      Man Utd have finally got their man in Erik ten HagCredit: https://www.instagram.com/manchesterunited/
      The union of Erik ten Hag and Manchester United does not feel like a marriage made in heaven.
      This season, United’s record against Manchester City and Liverpool — bitter traditional foes, who can barely even be described as rivals any more — reads played four, lost four, scored one, ­conceded 15.
      And anyone who witnessed those four mismatches will know that aggregate   scoreline   seriously  flatters United. They weren’t derbies, they were bloodbaths.
      Tuesday’s 4-0 mauling at Anfield was as one-sided as it was predictable.
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      So, politically, the timing of this announcement, prior to his summer arrival from Ajax, is ideal for Ten Hag.
      United’s fortunes — and their expectations — at a four-decade low. Nobody will ever be able to accuse him of squandering a glorious inheritance.
      But can Ten Hag’s successes at Ajax, world-renowned as a well-oiled talent factory, be taken as proof that he can bring order to a club infamous for its dysfunctionality?
      United might easily have gone for the tried-and-tested.
      Ten Hag has won it all in Holland with Ajax – but United is a whole different levelCredit: Reuters
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      BETTING SPECIAL – GET FURY AT 30/1 OR WHYTE AT 100/1
      They could have appointed Antonio Conte back in the autumn, when it was clear Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s sepia-tinted reign would be consigned to the recycling bin.
      Instead they made the weird decision to appoint the scholarly Ralf Rangnick on an interim basis and ended up without a trophy for a fifth straight season.
      They could also have gone for Mauricio Pochettino at most points within the last six years.
      The Argentinian, who transformed Tottenham, has a track-record and a skill-set which should have singled him out as the perfect candidate.
      Poch, who turned 50 last month, is two years younger than Ten Hag, yet has eight years of elite-level management experience.
      And Ten Hag’s greatest triumph, Ajax’s 2019 Champions League run, was halted by a remarkable semi-final comeback from Pochettino’s Spurs.
      Pochettino or Conte, though, would have demanded greater power in decision-making than Ten Hag.
      And they would also have tossed Molotovs into an unruly, often anarchic, United dressing-room, with its culture of rampant egos, empty social-media apologies and cowardly buck-passing.
      Conte’s appointment at Spurs, for all the Italian’s turbulence, felt like a potential game-changer.

      Ten Hag at United feels like a punt.
      We are told that when Ten Hag met United chiefs John Murtough and Darren Fletcher last month, it was not so much an interview as a b******ing administered by the Dutchman to his prospective employers — a warts-and-all takedown of a shambolic club.
      That should be encouraging for United supporters.
      It suggests there is an air of reality on both sides.
      It suggests Ten Hag is not merely grateful to get the gig.
      It suggests that while he has ignored the advice of his compatriot, Louis van Gaal, to choose a ‘football club not a commercial club’, he understands the magnitude of his task.
      DRESSING ROOM DIVIDE
      And it suggests there are some in the United hierarchy willing to accept harsh truths — and appoint that man who delivered them.
      Since Sir Alex Ferguson departed nine long years ago, United have descended from ruthless winning machine to comedic farce. From The Godfather to the Muppet Show.
      Ten Hag will become United’s fifth permanent boss since Ferguson and will be less prepared to deal with the harshness of the spotlight than David Moyes, Van Gaal, Jose Mourinho or Solskjaer.
      So can Ten Hag deal with the intense scrutiny of United? With the Cristiano Ronaldo circus? With the vast anti-Glazer sentiment among supporters? With the rag-tag of leftovers from a £1billion transfer splurge since Ferguson departed?
      ‘SIX YEARS BEHIND LIVERPOOL’
      He may well have Steve McClaren, Fergie’s former No 2, in his backroom staff and the ex-England boss represents a link to United’s past glories.
      He can also assist Ten Hag, should he need any English translated into English with a comedy Dutch accent.
      United sources suggest they were attracted to Ten Hag because of his commitment to promoting, and improving, young players.
      Yet United’s two most high profile recent Academy graduates — Mason Greenwood and Marcus Rashford — are, respectively, experiencing personal and professional crises.
      There are many more with great potential in United’s youth ranks, but then we are talking about a long-term overhaul. And extreme levels of patience.
      Rangnick may not have pulled up any trees.
      But he has certainly been honest and outspoken with his views on United’s predicament — that they are six years behind Liverpool (and therefore City) and that they may need to sign ten new players.
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      United are at rock-bottom. A club with their immense levels of income and investment cannot feasibly descend much further.
      And at least the appointment of Ten Hag suggests that they have taken the first steps to recovery — by recognising just how far they have fallen.
      Will Cristiano Ronaldo fit into Erik ten Hag’s immediate plans?Credit: Getty More

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      Erik ten Hag LIVE: Ajax boss ANNOUNCED as Man Utd manager, Dutchman signs three-year deal, Ronaldo RETURNS – latest

      by

      ERIK TEN HAG has been ANNOUNCED as Manchester United manager.The Dutchman has signed a three-year deal at Old Trafford with the option of a further year and will take over after he has finished the season with Ajax.
      The 52-year-old said: “It is a great honour to be appointed manager of Manchester United and I am hugely excited by the challenge ahead.
      “I know the history of this great club and the passion of the fans, and I am absolutely determined to develop a team capable of delivering the success they deserve.”
      Ajax are currently top of Eredivisie by four points with five games to go and Ten Hag can pack his bags for Manchester after the season is done.
      And Cristiano Ronaldo was spotted leaving Carrington in the back of a Mercedes this afternoon.
      Stay up to date with all the latest from Old Trafford in our live blog…
      Ten Hag’s record-breaking wages
      Newly announced Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag will reportedly bank a ‘record-breaking’ salary for taking over as boss.
      The 52-year-old has penned a three-year deal, with the option for a further 12 months.
      While Ten Hag’s Old Trafford earnings remain unknown, he is set to become the highest paid Dutchman in Premier League history.
      Dutch outlet De Telegraaf claim he will earn more than countryman Louis van Gaal did during his fateful two-year spell at Old Trafford.
      Van Gaal, who revealed earlier this month he was battling cancer, is said to have earned a £3.3million base salary at United – not including bonuses.
      Therefore Ten Hag’s wages will exceed that number, with his official salary yet to be confirmed.
      Neville outlays United vision
      Gary Neville wants Ten Hag to concentrate on building new foundations at Man United before challenging for a trophy.
      Neville said: “First, it should be getting back into the top four, re-establishing Manchester United in the Champions League, attract the players into the club that play the way he wants to play and then start to get a system of belief.
      “It took Jurgen Klopp five years to win a Premier League title [at Liverpool], as great a job as he has done.
      “At the end of last year, to be fair, I thought United were getting closer [to winning the title]. Yet it’s all collapsed and fallen to pieces and I don’t know why that has happened.
      “Erik ten Hag gets to pick up the pieces. Initial phase: Build the foundations of what he wants to achieve.”
      More from Irwin
      Man United will be challenging for the Prem in two to three years with Ten Hag at the helm.
      That’s the opinion of club legend Denis Irwin who has been impressed with the style of play the Dutchman’s instilled with Ajax.
      He said: “Yeah, it might take time with an overhaul due in terms of the first-team squad, and we need a bit of patience as well.
      “The best-case scenario is we’ll be challenging hopefully in two or three years’ time for the league, but I’m excited by the style of football and the fact he seems an honest and hard-working manager.”
      Irwin on Ten Hag
      Man United legend Denis Irwin is ecstatic over the club’s appointment of Ten Hag.
      Irwin told Sky Sports: “I’m more than happy. He’s an exciting appointment.
      “The style of football he’s played at Ajax over the last four and a half years is great to watch.
      “He’s had success in Holland and on the European stage, and I think all the fans are right behind it.”
      Conte on top-four race
      Spurs boss Antonio Conte is bracing for a fight with Arsenal and Man United over the coveted fourth spot.
      Conte said: “We have to fight with Arsenal, they showed yesterday they are in good form, Man Utd, West Ham and Wolverhampton.
      “Now we have to fight until the end. The last second of the last game we will see which will be our place in the table.”
      Neville on Ten Hag
      Gary Neville has revealed he isn’t excited by Man United’s appointment of Erik ten Hag because of the club’s current poor form.
      Although he expects his feelings to change when the pre-season period kicks in.
      Neville said: “I wouldn’t say excitement because of the mood we’re in at the moment as Manchester United.
      “But come the end of the season, there will be a lot of outgoings and a group of new signings which always bring excitement, then hopefully a manager who can get the side playing with pride again.
      “It’s difficult at this stage to get excited, but in pre-season there will be that feeling. There will be excitement but I don’t quite feel it at this moment in time because of how bad United currently are.
      “Erik ten Hag is the man of the moment and the overwhelming choice of the fans.”
      Conte’s warning to Ten Hag
      Tottenham boss Antonio Conte has claimed Erik ten Hag has a tough task on his hands at Man United.
      Conte said: “Don’t forget that last season United were in second place and improve the squad with Varane, Sancho and Ronaldo.
      “It’s strange but they’ve improved the squad and have done worse than last season. It shows it’s not easy, particularly in England.
      “In England it’s a big job for every manager, the level is so high. When you’re at Manchester United the pressure is massive.
      “You have to fight to win trophies. It’s not easy because other teams have the same idea.”
      Maguire bomb scare
      Man United and England star Harry Maguire has been left shocked after receiving a bomb threat.
      Cheshire police with sniffer dogs have been sent to the mansion where Maguire lives with fiancee Fern Hawkins and their two daughters.
      Searches are ongoing.
      The chilling warning came via email that a bomb would be planted at the home of the United skipper.

      Ten Hag the defender
      Erik ten Hag had a 13 year playing career, playing for four different clubs between 1989 and 2002, all in the Netherlands.
      The centre-back had THREE spells with Twente, appearing a total of 248 times.

      Who is Erik ten Hag?
      Ten Hag started his managerial career in 2012, taking over at Dutch minnows Go Ahead Eagles.
      The former centre-back spent two years at Bayern Munich II, before enjoying another two seasons back in Holland, with Utrecht.
      Ten Hag took over at Ajax in 2017 and has helped them win TWO Eredivisie titles – in 2018-19 and 2020-21 – with a third looking almost certain this season.
      The boss famously led Ajax to the 2018-19 Champions League semi-final only to be stunned after a late Tottenham comeback – denying them a date with Liverpool in the final.
      Ten Hag has also won two KNVB Cup crowns and the Johan Cruyff Shield during his time in Amsterdam.

      Ten Hag ‘hugely excited’ by United
      Upon the announcement of the Dutchman as the new United boss, Ten Hag spoke to the Manchester United official site.
      He said: “It is a great honour to be appointed manager of Manchester United and I am hugely excited by the challenge ahead.
      “I know the history of this great club and the passion of the fans, and I am absolutely determined to develop a team capable of delivering the success they deserve.
      “It will be difficult to leave Ajax after these incredible years, and I can assure our fans of my complete commitment and focus on bringing this season to a successful conclusion before I move to Manchester United.”
      It is a great honour to be appointed manager of Manchester United and I am hugely excited.Erik Ten HagManchester United
      Steve McClaren to join Ten Hag’s assistant staff
      Steve McClaren is reportedly set to become Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United assistant – despite the club initially REJECTING their new manager’s request, writes ANTHONY CHAPMAN.
      And the current Ajax boss will start his Old Trafford role this summer after penning a three-year deal.
      However, there is still no announcement over Ten Hag’s backroom staff.
      It’s believed he wants to bring Ajax No2 Mitchell van der Gaag and former England boss McClaren to Old Trafford.

      But the Telegraph claims United had been resisting Ten Hag’s calls to give McClaren a job.
      Ten Hag had been asked to first evaluate United’s current options before requesting any drastic changes to staff.
      However, it’s now said that Red Devils chiefs have given in to Ten Hag’s demands.
      And McClaren is now on the verge of a stunning return to the Premier League.
      The 60-year-old served as Sir Alex Ferguson’s assistant from 1999 to 2001.
      And Ten Hag, who in turn was McClaren’s No2 at FC Twente, believes he brings unrivalled experience of the English game.
      Meanwhile, United remain in negotiations with Ajax for Van der Gaag.
      United Welcome Erik
      Manchester United have released a photograph of Ten Hag, sporting a Red Devils shirt draped over his shoulder.
      The caption read: “New beginnings.”

      Ten Hag to bring Ajax assistant with him
      Mitchell van der Gaag is set to join Manchester United as Erik ten Hag’s assistant manager, say reports.
      The Manchester Evening News report that Ten Hag is set to bring Van der Gaag with him.
      However, United are yet to finalise terms on a deal.
      The 50-year-old joined Ajax in 2019 as head coach of the club’s B team, before being promoted to Ten Hag’s assistant last year. 
      Cristiano thanks fans for tribute
      Ronaldo was very appreciative of the reception given by United and Liverpool fans for wife Georgina Rodriguez and family on Tuesday night at Anfield.
      There was a moment of reflection in the 7th minute of the game as fans gave their support to Ronaldo and his family after they announced a tragic loss of one of the twin babies during birth last week.
      He said: “One world… One sport… One global family… Thanks, Anfield.
      “Me and my family will never forget this moment of respect and compassion”

      United transfer targets
      United are looking at spending another £350million to put together a new team — and that is with a couple of free transfers, writes NEIL CUSTIS.
      Spurs’ Harry Kane is an obvious strike target, as well as Declan Rice at West Ham to bolster the midfield, along with Wolves’ Ruben Neves.
      RB Leipzig’s Christopher Nkunku is certainly one Rangnick will have put on the board’s radar.

      He has 17 goals and 13 assists playing across the front line this season.
      At the back, United could pick up a couple of great frees in Antonio Rudiger from Chelsea, whose contract is running down, and Ten Hag’s own Noussair ­Mazraoui at Ajax.
      Presnel Kimpembe from Paris Saint-Germain at centre-back is also a possibility at £36million.
      This rebuild is a huge responsibility, or more years in the wilderness will follow.
      You can only wish Ten Hag good luck.
      Ronaldo under Ten Hag and Red Devils character
      Ronaldo is another big question Ten Hag needs to answer.
      While his arrival seemed to unsettle the set-up and plans Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had for the season, his goals return cannot be questioned.
      Some like Pogba, Edinson Cavani and Lingard are just off, so there is nothing to decide. Others must be shown the exit.
      Ten Hag will know his fellow Dutchman Donny van de Beek well but he simply cannot play in the Premier League — as Everton are now also finding out during his loan spell there.
      Anthony Martial will be lucky to find another club after his downturn at United has been followed by a horror spell on loan at Sevilla.
      For Sir Alex Ferguson, talent was only half of it when he was looking for a player.
      He wanted a deep-dive into their character before he made a decision.
      Would he ever have signed Sanchez, Romelu Lukaku, Angel Di Maria or Pogba, who he had already got rid of once?
      Too many players bought over the last nine years since Fergie retired have not had the character to succeed at Old Trafford.
      So few leaders, so many willing to hide and hang the manager out to dry.
      Ten Hag’s defensive woes at Old Trafford
      Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw have had stinkers this season, writes NEIL CUSTIS.
      Shaw was probably the best full-back in Europe last season and Maguire’s arrival in summer 2019 coincided immediately with an improvement in defensive displays.
      Can Ten Hag revive and reboot them?
      Roy Keane claimed you cannot win a title with Scott McTominay and Fred in midfield but you would certainly want them in your squad.
      Elsewhere, Raphael Varane is becoming a bit of an Alexis Sanchez.
      Big name, big money but not big performances and while Maguire plays through injury, Varane is too often sidelined.
      Ten Hag’s to do list
      Ask any irate United fan right now and there would be nobody left at Carrington next season bar De Gea, Cristiano Ronaldo and a few young lads knocking on the door, writes NEIL CUSTIS.
      But Ten Hag has to balance how much better he can make what he is inheriting with those who are lost or “broken” — Neville’s word again — and simply irreparable.
      Everyone will have their opinions and it is a lot easier just to say ‘Get out’ than give someone another chance.
      Take local lad Marcus Rashford, who has just made his 300th appearance for United.
      He has had a dreadful season, his woeful first touch when put through at Anfield in the first half summed it up.
      Rashford’s confidence is shot on match day.
      Yet Rangnick’s assessment of the player due to what he produces in training is still very high.
      Can a new coach like Ten Hag transfer that in to games?
      Where to start for Ten Hag
      What were Manchester United left with for their clash at bitter rivals Liverpool?
      Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic, two players who started at Anfield, are definitely leaving this summer, writes NEIL CUSTIS.
      As is Jesse Lingard, who came on to replace the injured Pogba after ten minutes.
      Phil Jones was starting just his second game of the season and had to be withdrawn for his own good at half-time.
      Elsewhere you could not name a single player who would get into Liverpool’s team, or Manchester City’s, or maybe even Chelsea or Spurs bar goalkeeper David de Gea.
      The team is “nothing”, as Gary Neville put it.
      So where does incoming boss Erik ten Hag start?

      Football director Murtough’s admiration for Ten Hag
      John Murtough, Football Director at Manchester United, spoke to the club’s official site upon the signing of Ten Hag.
      He said: “During the past four years at Ajax, Erik has proved himself to be one of the most exciting and successful coaches in Europe, renowned for his team’s attractive, attacking football and commitment to youth.
      “In our conversations with Erik leading up to this appointment, we were deeply impressed with his long-term vision for returning Manchester United to the level we want to be competing at, and his drive and determination to achieve that. 
      “We wish Erik the best of luck as he focuses on achieving a successful end to the season at Ajax and look forward to welcoming him to Manchester United this summer.”  
      Erik has proved himself to be one of the most exciting and successful coaches in Europe, renowned for his team’s attractive, attacking football and commitment to youth.John Murtough, Football DirectorManchester United
      Van der Sar speaks on the departure of boss Ten Hag
      Ajax Chief Executive Edwin van der Sar has spoken on Erik ten Hag’s departure from the Amsterdam club.
      He said: “Four and a half years is a good amount of time, but we would have liked to have kept Erik at Ajax for longer.
      “He is going to make the step to one of the biggest clubs in the world, in a fantastic league.
      “We owe Erik a lot of thanks for what he has achieved with Ajax so far, but we are not done yet.
      “At the end of the season, I will look back more extensively on his departure.
      “For now, what matters is the final games of the season in which we all want to bring home the league title.”
      “Ten Hag is going to make the step to one of the biggest clubs in the world, in a fantastic league.Edwin van der SarAjax
      Ajax tried to keep Ten Hag
      Ajax had fought tooth and nail to keep Ten Hag at the Eredivisie leaders.
      Technical director Gerry Hamstra said: “I can be very clear about this, we did [try to keep him].
      “We did everything to. We are trying everything to keep him.”
      When asked if the club offered Ten Hag a bumper new deal, Hamstra added: “Yes. We tried everything.
      “When? Recently.”
      Who is Erik ten Hag?
      Ten Hag started his managerial career in 2012, taking over at Dutch minnows Go Ahead Eagles.
      The former centre-back spent two years at Bayern Munich II, before enjoying another two seasons back in Holland, with Utrecht.
      Ten Hag took over at Ajax in 2017 and has helped them win TWO Eredivisie titles – in 2018-19 and 2020-21 – with a third looking almost certain this season.
      The boss famously led Ajax to the 2018-19 Champions League semi-final only to be stunned after a late Tottenham comeback – denying them a date with Liverpool in the final.
      Ten Hag has also won two KNVB Cup crowns and the Johan Cruyff Shield during his time in Amsterdam.

      United decision on Ten Hag
      Ten Hag was keen to get several assurances from the hierarchy before he took the job in order to give himself the best possible chance of turning the club around write DAVE FRASER and MARTIN BLACKBURN.
      There was some interest from RB Leipzig – but once he knew he would get the support he needed there was no doubt in his mind he wanted the United job.
      Red Devils chiefs are desperate to finally find a successful replacement to Sir Alex Ferguson, with the announcement coming just two days after being humiliated 4-0 by rivals Liverpool.
      United haven’t won the Premier League title since Fergie’s final season in 2012-13.
      The club have burned through David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, before turning to Rangnick to steady the ship until the end of this season.
      But Manchester United are currently on their longest trophy drought since they were last relegated nearly 50 years ago.
      And after an extensive hunt, the Old Trafford board have named Ten Hag their new boss.
      Load more entries… More

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      Man Utd’s Ten Hag is the latest manager trying replace Sir Alex Ferguson but none have come close for nine years

      by

      ERIK TEN HAG will be the latest Manchester United manager to attempt to find success in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era.Ten Hag takes over at the end of the season after Ralf Rangnick’s spell as interim manager, with the club still searching for consistency and a return to their former glories.
      No one has been able to replace Manchester United legendary boss Sir Alex FergusonCredit: PA
      Erik ten Hag is tasked with succeeding where five others failed at Manchester UnitedCredit: Reuters
      But no one has come close to meeting the required standard since Ferguson retired in 2013.
      David Moyes
      Played 51: Won 27, Drew 9, Lost 15. Win rate: 53 per cent
      Trophies: Community Shield, 2013
      Moyes took just one game to win a trophy, the Community Shield against Wigan, as Ferguson’s hand-picked successor.
      .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1546w7m{background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 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utd.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}MAN UTD NEWS .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Erik ten Hag ANNOUNCED as Man Utd manager, Dutchman signs three-year deal
      There was little else to celebrate, though, as he failed to even see out the first of the six seasons on his contract.
      He was sacked after 10 months, with Ryan Giggs finishing the campaign as caretaker manager.
      Moyes struggled in subsequent spells with Real Sociedad and Sunderland but the ex-Everton boss has rebuilt his reputation across two spells with West Ham.
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      Louis van Gaal
      P103: W54, D25, L24. Win rate: 52 per cent
      Trophies: FA Cup, 2016
      United’s previous Dutch boss never truly won over the Old Trafford faithful, even if his recent cancer diagnosis has brought an outpouring of affection.
      A dreadful winless start against Swansea, Sunderland, third-tier MK Dons and Burnley gave way to an improvement.
      Van Gaal signed off with an FA Cup win, beating Crystal Palace in extra time, but his win percentage was the lowest of the post-Ferguson era until Rangnick’s spell in charge.
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      Louis van Gaal won the FA Cup but failed to win over the Manchester United crowdCredit: PA:Press Association
      Jose Mourinho
      P144: W84, D32, L28. Win rate: 58 per cent
      Trophies: Europa League 2017, League Cup 2017, Community Shield 2016
      By win percentage and trophy haul, Mourinho is United’s most successful manager since Ferguson – successful in 58 per cent of his games.
      He achieved a runner-up finish in the league, and adding a League Cup and Europa League double in 2016-2017 having emulated Moyes by winning the Community Shield in his first game.
      His, though, was an erratic and ill-tempered spell, with a defensive style of play and fallings-out with players leaving the fans cold.
      Jose Mourinho was the most successful Manchester United boss after Sir Alex FergusonCredit: AFP
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
      P167: W91, D37, L39. Win rate: 54 per cent
      Trophies: None
      The much-loved former United striker proved almost the inverse of his predecessor, with a fluid and attacking style of play but inconsistent results on the field.
      A stunning spell as caretaker, winning 14 games out of 19 after replacing Mourinho, deservedly earned him the job on a permanent basis .
      But he came nowhere near emulating that 74 per cent win rate from then on.
      He left his job in November after United won just three of his last 10 games and conceded 15 goals in the last six, the first United manager since Frank O’Farrell in the early 1970s not to add to the club’s trophy cabinet.
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was sacked during this season and replaced by Ralf RangnickCredit: Reuters
      Ralf Rangnick
      P24: W10, D9, L5. Win rate: 41 per cent
      Trophies: None
      Michael Carrick’s three games as caretaker before the appointment of an interim manager were a curious interlude.
      Rangnick was tasked with seeing out this season before moving into a consultancy role with the club and began with five games unbeaten.
      United have lost only five games under his stewardship, they have drawn far too many – including one against Middlesbrough in the FA Cup which led to a disappointing exit on penalties. More

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      in Soccer

      Erik ten Hag faces baptism of fire as Man Utd boss with first match set to be against LIVERPOOL on Asia pre-season tour

      by

      ERIK TEN HAG faces a baptism of fire with his first game in charge of Manchester United set to be against Liverpool.The club have finally confirmed that the 52-year-old Ajax boss is heading to Old Trafford this summer.
      Erik ten Hag faces a nightmare first game at Man Utd against LiverpoolCredit: EPA
      He takes on Jurgen Klopp’s side in Bangkok on July 12Credit: Rex
      Ten Hag has penned a contract until the summer of 2025 at the Theatre of Dreams.
      After verbally agreeing to take charge last week, he wanted to hold fire on signing the United contract until last Sunday’s Dutch Cup final – which his team lost to PSV Eindhoven.
      He is now putting all his focus on leading Ajax to a third league title of his tenure before moving to the Premier League at the end of the campaign.
      However, the Dutchman faces a difficult start to life with United – even if it’s only a friendly!
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      The club will take on bitter rivals Liverpool in Bangkok to kick off their pre-season for next season.
      The game for the Centenary Cup will take place on July 12 at the Rajamangala stadium in the Thai capital.
      The Red Devils will then fly to Australia for their first visit to Melbourne since 1999.
      They will play at the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground against local A-League team Melbourne Victory on July 15, and then Crystal Palace on July 19.
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      BETTING SPECIAL – GET FURY AT 30/1 OR WHYTE AT 100/1
      But it will be the clash with Liverpool that will be causing the most anxiety.
      United were smashed 4-0 at Anfield on Tuesday in another dismal performance.
      Mo Salah grabbed two while Luis Diaz and Sadio Mane also scored to take the aggregate score this season to 9-0 between the two teams.
      And even though it is only a friendly, both United supporters and Ten Hag will be desperate to regain some pride when they collide again in the Far East. More

    • 238 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd’s incoming manager Erik ten Hag lives above supermarket, studies Guardiola’s teams and loves Van Gaal and Cruyff

      by

      ERIK TEN HAG famously lives above a supermarket in Amsterdam, but the only shelf he stacked was his club’s trophy cabinet.The Ajax boss, 52, has been confirmed as Manchester United’s next manager – signing a three-year deal with the club.
      Erik ten Hag is Man Utd’s next managerCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      From next season, the Dutch tactician will be in the Old Trafford hot-seat – and is expected to be handed a £200million war chest to improve the fortunes of the Red Devils.
      The quiet thinker had a 13-year playing career in Holland, before he revived the glory days at Ajax with a vibrant young team.
      In 2019, with a side that featured homegrown talents like Frenkie de Jong, Matthijs de Ligt, Donny van de Beek and Hakim Ziyech, he reached a Champions League semi-final.
      Ten Hag, a keen golfer with a high-pitched voice, worked wonders given Ajax had not even competed in the knockout stages since 2005-06.
      Having already surpassed par, Ten Hag is becoming a Master. That’s why he was United’s hierarchy’s first choice.
      AJAX ICONS
      On the wall of his modest office at the club’s De Toekomst training ground hang photos of Johan Cruyff, Rinus Michels and Louis van Gaal.
      In an era when Ajax are surrounded by financially beefed up opponents, he has ensured the club have stayed competitive. This season, they were narrowly beaten by Benfica over two legs to exit the Champions League in the Round of 16 stage.
      So how has the former centre-back from a rural town in Twente transformed their fortunes?
      Ten Hag’s education in coaching goes some way to explain.
      In 2013, having spent his entire career in Holland, he moved abroad to work with the master of management.
      At Bayern Munich, Ten Hag cut his coaching teeth with the reserves while watching closely as Pep Guardiola revolutionised the German giants’ style.
      “Every day I get to work with him, I look forward to it. He inspires me,” he gushed.
      Ten Hag worked closely with Pep Guardiola for two years as Bayern Munich II’s managerCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Ten Hag is a disciple of Guardiola with his focus on attacking and attractive footballCredit: AFP or licensors
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      And his approach to training shows Ten Hag is a disciple of Guardiola, such is the obsession with detail.
      He has a particular focus on the character of a player.
      Ten Hag will note down how each individual responds to minor errors, losing the ball or committing a foul, and works out the mentality of his team to suit their opponent.
      Before being appointed at Ajax in 2017, these skills helped him guide Utrecht into the Europa League.DEVELOPING YOUTH
      Ten Hag suited Ajax due to his ability to nurture young talent into stars.
      Frenkie de Jong joined Barcelona in a deal worth £65million in 2019. Matthijs de Ligt joined Juventus for the same fee – boosting the club’s coffers.
      Ten Hag played a key role in the development of players like Memphis Depay, at PSV, and Marko Arnautovic, at FC Twente.
      He transformed Depay from a central midfielder to a wide position, with the coach’s focus constantly on attacking and attractive football.
      Yet, Ten Hag is also able to identify what his team needs.
      Among his youthful stars, are seasoned veterans including former Manchester United man Daley Blind and ex-Southampton midfielder Dusan Tadic.
      Both were brought in 2018 by Ten Hag to redress the team’s inexperience.
      Ten Hag’s first managerial job was with Dutch side Go Ahead EaglesCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Ten Hag rose to prominence in Holland by taking Utrecht to the Europa LeagueCredit: Rex Features
      Former defender Ten Hag focuses on developing youth by gaining their trustCredit: Getty – Contributor
      The Dutchman has spoken of his lofty ambitions to manage a bigger club.
      And with Ajax now firmly established back as one of Europe’s big guns under Ten Hag, felt his work at the club was done.
      Now, the challenge of the Premier League awaits. Can he succeed where other Dutch coaches have failed? Time will tell. More

    • 238 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd incoming manager Erik ten Hag lived above supermarket, studies Guardiola’s teams and loves Van Gaal and Cruyff

      by

      ERIK TEN HAG famously lived above a supermarket in Amsterdam, but the only shelf he stacked was his club’s trophy cabinet.The Ajax boss, 52, has been confirmed as Manchester United’s next manager – signing a three-year deal with the club.
      Erik ten Hag is Man Utd’s next managerCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      From next season, the Dutch tactician will be in the Old Trafford hot-seat – and is expected to be handed a £200million war chest to improve the fortunes of the Red Devils.
      The quiet thinker had a 13-year playing career in Holland, before he revived the glory days at Ajax with a vibrant young team.
      In 2019, with a side that featured homegrown talents like Frenkie de Jong, Matthijs de Ligt, Donny van de Beek and Hakim Ziyech, he reached a Champions League semi-final.
      Ten Hag, a keen golfer with a high-pitched voice, worked wonders given Ajax had not even competed in the knockout stages since 2005-06.
      Having already surpassed par, Ten Hag is becoming a Master. That’s why he was United’s hierarchy’s first choice.
      AJAX ICONS
      On the wall of his modest office at the club’s De Toekomst training ground hang photos of Johan Cruyff, Rinus Michels and Louis van Gaal.
      In an era when Ajax are surrounded by financially beefed up opponents, he has ensured the club have stayed competitive. This season, they were narrowly beaten by Benfica over two legs to exit the Champions League in the Round of 16 stage.
      So how has the former centre-back from a rural town in Twente transformed their fortunes?
      Ten Hag’s education in coaching goes some way to explain.
      In 2013, having spent his entire career in Holland, he moved abroad to work with the master of management.
      At Bayern Munich, Ten Hag cut his coaching teeth with the reserves while watching closely as Pep Guardiola revolutionised the German giants’ style.
      “Every day I get to work with him, I look forward to it. He inspires me,” he gushed.
      Ten Hag worked closely with Pep Guardiola for two years as Bayern Munich II’s managerCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Ten Hag is a disciple of Guardiola with his focus on attacking and attractive footballCredit: AFP or licensors
      .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most Read In Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}

      And his approach to training shows Ten Hag is a disciple of Guardiola, such is the obsession with detail.
      He has a particular focus on the character of a player.
      Ten Hag will note down how each individual responds to minor errors, losing the ball or committing a foul, and works out the mentality of his team to suit their opponent.
      Before being appointed at Ajax in 2017, these skills helped him guide Utrecht into the Europa League.DEVELOPING YOUTH
      Ten Hag suited Ajax due to his ability to nurture young talent into stars.
      Frenkie de Jong joined Barcelona in a deal worth £65million in 2019. Matthijs de Ligt joined Juventus for the same fee – boosting the club’s coffers.
      Ten Hag played a key role in the development of players like Memphis Depay, at PSV, and Marko Arnautovic, at FC Twente.
      He transformed Depay from a central midfielder to a wide position, with the coach’s focus constantly on attacking and attractive football.
      Yet, Ten Hag is also able to identify what his team needs.
      Among his youthful stars, are seasoned veterans including former Manchester United man Daley Blind and ex-Southampton midfielder Dusan Tadic.
      Both were brought in 2018 by Ten Hag to redress the team’s inexperience.
      Ten Hag’s first managerial job was with Dutch side Go Ahead EaglesCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Ten Hag rose to prominence in Holland by taking Utrecht to the Europa LeagueCredit: Rex Features
      Former defender ten Hag focuses on developing youth by gaining their trustCredit: Getty – Contributor
      The Dutchman has spoken of his lofty ambitions to manage a bigger club.
      And with Ajax now firmly established back as one of Europe’s big guns under Ten Hag, felt his work at the club was done.
      Now, the challenge of the Premier League awaits. Can he succeed where other Dutch coaches have failed? Time will tell. More