'We haven’t met the standards' — Ten Hag gives damning verdict on Manchester United season
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Erik Ten Hag. (Photo Credit: BR Football/X)

'We haven’t met the standards' — Ten Hag gives damning verdict on Manchester United season

Ayoola Kelechi 00:17 - 16.12.2023

Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag has given a scathing review of his Red Devils side after a string of poor results

Erik ten Hag, the Manchester United manager, has been facing challenges this season, with United's performance falling below expectations. Due to these setbacks, Ten Hag remains uncertain about the team's potential and the future of Manchester United, emphasising his disappointment at how things have gone during his spell as the Red Devils' manager.

A Time for Change and Resilience

Speaking ahead of the weekend's Premier League match against fierce rivals Liverpool, Ten Hag has expressed his unhappiness with Manchester United's current form, although the Dutch gaffer expressed his belief that there would be light at the end of the tunnel for the Red Devils. 

He acknowledges the team's shortcomings and the deviation from expected standards but emphasizes his focus on winning and progressing in the right direction

Ten Hag’s Confidence in the Club's Future

Ten Hag expresses confidence in the future of Manchester United, citing the presence of many talented young players in the squad with high potential. He believes in the long-term prospects of the club and is committed to developing these young talents to play at top levels worldwide. 

Erik ten Hag, Manchester United manager || Image credit: Imago
Erik ten Hag, Manchester United manager || Image credit: Imago

His focus remains on improving the team and individual players, emphasising the importance of consistent high-level performance

The Challenge of Meeting High Standards

Manchester United, with its rich history and high expectations, demands excellence. Ten Hag is aware of these expectations and is determined to meet them. 

Manchester United's Andre Onana and Erik Ten Hag after getting knocked out of the Champions League by Bayern Munich | Imago
Manchester United's Andre Onana and Erik Ten Hag after getting knocked out of the Champions League by Bayern Munich | Imago

He acknowledges the team's current position as below the standards expected of Manchester United and takes responsibility for it. He emphasises the need for the team to raise its standards to achieve better results

Ten Hag's Approach to Management

Known for his straightforward and blunt style, Ten Hag is not afraid to hold his players accountable. His approach involves rigorous game analysis and setting high standards for performance. He is committed to improving the squad and is expected to make significant additions this summer. 

Despite not having Champions League football for the rest of this season and possibly the next campaign as well, Ten Hag believes that Manchester United can still attract top-quality players due to its global appeal and the financial strength of the Premier League

Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag and former boss Sir Alex Ferguson pose with the Carabao Cup // Manchester United Image

For Ten Hag, the road ahead involves rebuilding and reshaping Manchester United into a team that can consistently win and perform at high levels. 

He recognises the need for changes in the squad and is prepared to bring in new players while also allowing current players to develop and improve. His ultimate goal is to restore Manchester United to its former glory, ensuring that the team can compete with the best in the world.

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