Eric ten Hag has delivered a candid interview about his troubled stint at Manchester United after being sacked, and it’s clear he still has plenty to say about his exit. Despite his openness, not all have taken to his comments kindly, particularly in the Netherlands where some feel he should set aside the past and concentrate on his new job.
In his extensive interview, ten Hag pointed the finger at the club's hierarchy, claiming a lack of adequate support. According to him, the club had promised to trust his decisions but fell short of those commitments, particularly regarding transfers.
The Dutch coach also lamented the overbearing influence of certain players within the squad, notably mentioning his fraught relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ten Hag managed Manchester United from 2022 until October 2024, during which time he secured the FA Cup and the EFL Cup. However, inconsistent league performances and a costly squad overhaul ultimately led to his dismissal.
“What’s the point in a parting shot?”
Dutch journalist Mike Verweij expressed that ten Hag really should move on from past grievances.
On the podcast Kick-off, he conceded that the coach has every right to speak about his time at Manchester United but questioned the wisdom behind such interviews.
Verweij stated:
He has every right to reflect on his time at Manchester United. It’s clear this chapter still stings for him.
But I don’t think it’s wise to air this out publicly. For us journalists, it’s gold, but what’s the point in taking a swing on the way out?
The journalist suggested that ten Hag would benefit more by directing his focus towards his current role at Twente.
Verweij added:
He should look ahead and concentrate on his role at Twente, aiming to achieve something significant there.
He’s doing well, so there’s no need to stir the pot again.
United's problems persist without ten Hag
The former manager's revelations come at a precarious time for Manchester United.
Michael Carrick’s side has had a rocky start to the season, and after the recent defeat to Bournemouth, more pressure has mounted on the coaching staff.
Moreover, it’s not just former employees who are voicing concern about the club's issues; current players are also beginning to speak out.
While Carrick has attempted to cool tempers and encourage the squad to focus on their tasks, yet another setback has further intensified scrutiny over the situation at Old Trafford.
It remains uncertain whether ten Hag will continue to divulge details about his conflict with Manchester United's hierarchy. Nonetheless, his interview has evidenced that, even two years post-dismissal, he still harbours significant grievances towards his former employers.
