Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is determined to put the uncertainties of the past behind him and focus on the upcoming season, which he believes will be a “survival of the fittest”.
Ten Hag’s future at the club was secured after a lengthy review by new co-owners Ineos, who triggered a one-year option in his contract, keeping him at Old Trafford until 2026.
The 54-year-old’s bullish statement after the FA Cup final win over Manchester City, “if they don’t want me, I will go and win somewhere else”, demonstrated his self-belief.
As United embark on their pre-season tour, Ten Hag is keen to draw a line under the past and look forward to a new season with a renewed sense of purpose.
The club has already made significant signings, including French defender Leny Yoro and Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee, and has brought in new backroom staff, including Gary O’Driscoll and Jordan Reece from Arsenal.
Ten Hag acknowledges that the season will be challenging, with a high load on players and a new European model that will involve eight first-phase games in the Europa League. However, he is confident in his team’s ability to adapt and succeed.
The manager is also focused on getting more out of his existing players, particularly England duo Marcus Rashford and Mason Mount, who struggled with form and fitness last season. Ten Hag believes that Rashford can return to his goal-scoring form of two years ago and that Mount will be a valuable asset when fit.
United’s coaching team has also been bolstered by the addition of Andreas Georgson, who joins Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake in a much-changed backroom unit. Ten Hag is confident that his team has the talent and depth to succeed in the upcoming season.
