In the first round of the 2024-25 Europa League, Manchester United drew 1-1 at home to FC Twente. Such an outcome would certainly not be satisfactory to the outside world, and all kinds of criticism poured into Ten Hag. After the game, manager Erik ten Hag spoke to the media. In the interview, he admitted that he was not bothered by outside pressure, nor was he affected by the criticism of the media and Manchester United legends.
When asked if he felt pressure from the media and celebrities, Ten Hag appeared very calm. "No matter what the coach is, when you're in charge of a big club, if you lose, you're always going to be in trouble," he said. It's a reality for any big manager. Ten Hag believes the pressure is inevitable at a club with a long history and a lot of attention at Manchester United, but he is not distracted. He stressed that the team's management is well aware that the team is in the process of transformation and is confident in the foundation that is currently being built.
Ten Hag further explained: "The top management knows that we are in a period of transition and understands what we are building. In a few months' time, I'm sure we'll really be able to build a really good team. The words revealed Ten Hag's confidence in United's future. He firmly believes that through a period of running-in and development, the team can complete the transformation from reconstruction to rise, and show stronger strength and competitiveness.
Ten Hag also says he is used to the intense pressure he faced at Ajax and Manchester United. "I'm used to this kind of pressure," he noted. That was already the case when I was in charge of Ajax, and it was the same at Manchester United. These clubs are always in the spotlight and everyone has their own opinions, and you have to learn to deal with these outside voices and not let them affect you. ”
Ten Hag's attitude is clear: as Manchester United's manager, he must focus on his job and not be swayed by outside comments or criticism. "Don't let yourself be distracted by these voices and just keep focusing on your work," he stressed. 'His calmness and determination show that he is clear about his role at United and that it will take time for the team to refine and improve. Despite the pressure and criticism from the outside world, Ten Hag remains steadfast in his belief that United can succeed under his leadership.
Ten Hag's comments showcased his maturity in dealing with pressure and his positive outlook for United's future. While the team's current performance has not yet met expectations, he remains optimistic about the direction of the team, believing that with a period of hard work and adjustment, the Reds will show a new look.
Ten Hag, as always, has shown his own unique confidence in interviews, which is a good thing, but the current situation is not rosy for him. In the summer window of this year, Manchester United's new management still spent 200 million euros with a budget of 50 million, signing Zirkze, Yoro, De Ligt, Mazraoui and Ugarte and many other strong reinforcements.
However, Manchester United's performance in the new season is far from the expectations of the outside world, after the first 5 rounds of league games, Manchester United has 2 wins, 1 draw and 2 losses, ranking 11th in the standings, and has been left 6 points away from Manchester City at the top of the table, and the gap between the top 4 is also widening. It can be seen that with the rise of Villa and the resurgence of Chelsea, the competition in the Premier League is even more fierce. If the team's performance falls short of expectations despite the huge investment spending, the possibility of Ten Hag's early sacking is always there.