Erik Ten Hag Hits Back at Reports of Man Utd Disunity
Posted By Yahaya Garba
December 5, 2023
6:23 pm
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Following the defeat to Newcastle United, allegations surfaced that Erik ten Hag was losing control of the dressing room, with players reportedly questioning his tactics and signings.
In response, four journalists, including representatives from Sky Sports, Manchester Evening News, the Daily Mirror, and ESPN, were barred from Ten Hag’s media conference ahead of the critical Premier League clash against Chelsea.
United maintained that it was not an attempt to censor but a reaction to the lack of an opportunity to “comment, challenge, or contextualize” before publication.
When questioned about these reports, the Dutchman refuted them, stating, “Of course, in every team, there are always players who are not playing or playing less, who are less happy. In some circumstances, you need that; they have to wait for their chance. But no, there are no issues.”
Contrary to claims of player resistance, Ten Hag pointed to recent attacking performances against Everton (a 3-0 win) and Galatasaray (a 3-3 draw due to defensive errors) as evidence that most players are embracing his methods and philosophy.
“I always listen to my players and provide opportunities for them to express their opinions. If the players have a different perspective, I will certainly listen,” he emphasized.
“But they haven’t told me… or maybe one or two. But it is about in general. The majority wants to play like this – proactive, dynamic, brave. That is what they want. You can see the players are behind it because of the performances against Everton and Galatasaray.
“Do you think we can [score] the goals we did against Everton if the players don’t embrace it? I am sure [they do]. You can see the comeback against Brentford, the Burnley game, the Fulham game. You can see you can’t play such great football as we did lately if there is no unity.”
Sources indicate that Ten Hag currently enjoys the full support of United’s hierarchy and incoming minority investor Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Those in power are focused on establishing stability and reshaping the club’s approach to transfer dealings.