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Two years after leaving Manchester United, Erik ten Hag is reflecting on his time in charge, discussing everything from the club’s use of data and the demands of the Premier League to his special relationship with midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. Now working as technical director at FC Twente, Ten Hag shared his candid thoughts during a meeting in the Netherlands.
Reflecting on Old Trafford and Transfer Regrets
Looking back at his tenure, Ten Hag revealed that a 2-2 draw with Sevilla in April 2023 served as a major turning point in his reign. He noted that the team struggled to maintain consistency, pointing out that losing key players like Lisandro Martinez—who broke his foot during that Sevilla match—and Bruno Fernandes heavily impacted the squad. In January 2023, seeking a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, Ten Hag brought in Wout Weghorst on loan from Burnley, believing the striker’s defensive work rate directly contributed to Marcus Rashford scoring 30 goals that season. However, grueling pre-season tours ahead of the 2023-24 campaign left players exhausted and lacking proper tactical and physical training.
Ten Hag also addressed recruitment decisions, suggesting that keeping Sofyan Amrabat instead of buying Manuel Ugarte would have saved money, and noted that Jadon Sancho’s unexpected refusal to play on the right wing created a late transfer dilemma that forced the club to sign Antony. Despite intense scrutiny from former players working as pundits, Ten Hag expressed respect for club legends like Gary Neville and Rio Ferdinand, though he acknowledged that their commentary could sometimes distract players.
Data Analysis and Friction with INEOS
As FC Twente’s technical director, Ten Hag utilizes detailed statistical analysis and a seven-point framework to judge players, focusing on technical ability, game intelligence, athleticism, lifestyle, determination, and resilience. He believes that data has changed the world and that Manchester United lagged behind in this area compared to clubs like Ajax. When Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS took minority ownership in December 2023, Ten Hag offered his expertise to help construct the club’s data operations, but stated that leadership declined his assistance because they believed they already knew everything based on their experience in petrochemicals, Formula 1, and cycling.
Praising Kobbie Mainoo and Future Prospects
Ten Hag singled out Kobbie Mainoo for special praise, recalling how he immediately spotted the teenager’s immense talent in July 2022 and worked to increase his intensity and dynamics. While acknowledging that expectations at Old Trafford are massive, Ten Hag insisted the squad was not yet capable of winning the Premier League during his time. Now settled back in the Netherlands at age 56, his love for the game remains undimmed as he balances his duties at FC Twente with UEFA technical analysis work.
Source: SkySports | News
