Sports
What Erik ten Hag did after Manchester United leaks
Amidst reports of internal unrest and disquiet within Manchester United, manager Erik ten Hag swiftly addressed his squad following damning media leaks, aiming to reinforce a message of unity and solidarity among his players.
Following allegations on Monday suggesting discontent among several Manchester United players regarding Ten Hag’s tactics, playing style, and treatment of Jadon Sancho, an additional source hinted at a purported 50 percent dissent within the dressing room following their recent 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United.
In response to the media leaks implicating both Manchester United and Ten Hag, the club took decisive action by banning four media outlets from attending Tuesday’s press conference preceding their upcoming match against Chelsea.
Fabrizio Romano reported that the 53-year-old manager personally engaged with his players, emphasizing the importance of unity amidst the ongoing speculation. Romano further highlighted Manchester United’s unwavering support and commitment to protect Ten Hag in the wake of the media scrutiny.
Ten Hag, in a pre-match press conference, vehemently dismissed suggestions of a fractured dressing room, stating, “In every team, there are always players who are not playing or playing less who are less happy. That is not different to normal.”
The Dutch manager referenced recent victories over Burnley, Brentford, and Fulham as evidence of the squad’s cohesion and resilience, showcasing a unified front in pivotal moments. “We are together. You can’t play such great football as we did lately if there is no unity. No, there are no issues,” Ten Hag emphasized.
Defending his playing style, Ten Hag asserted that the majority of the squad supports his proactive and dynamic approach, pointing to performances against Everton and Galatasaray as evidence of the team’s embrace of his methods.
“In general, the majority, they want to play like this – proactive, dynamic, brave,” Ten Hag asserted. “You see that goal? Do you think we can make the goal we did against Everton if the players don’t embrace it? What do you think?”