Erik ten Hag – I felt let down by three Manchester United players 

Erik ten Hag – I felt let down by three Manchester United players

 

As reported by Manchester evening News Erik ten Hag reportedly felt let down by Manchester United stars Marcus Rashford, Casemiro, and Antony before his dismissal on Monday, marking the end of a turbulent tenure at Old Trafford.

Following a series of underwhelming performances and the club’s struggles in the Premier League, Ten Hag’s departure has paved the way for Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim, United’s top choice to take the helm.

 

Throughout his time at United, Ten Hag was consistently backed by minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS, but his squad’s disappointing displays often fell short of expectations. Sources indicate that Rashford, Casemiro, and Antony were particularly disappointing for Ten Hag, with each player’s form suffering this season. Rashford, for instance, has only managed one goal so far, a stark contrast to his standout 30-goal season under Ten Hag’s leadership last year.

 

Casemiro’s struggles also continued, with the Brazilian midfielder facing criticism for lackluster performances, including his impact in United’s defeat to Liverpool. Rumors even circulated about a potential move to the Saudi Pro League in the summer. Meanwhile, Antony, despite his £86 million transfer from Ajax, has yet to fulfill expectations under his former Ajax boss, leaving fans and the club questioning recent investments.

 

As Ruud van Nistelrooy steps in as interim manager, Ruben Amorim is expected to become the club’s priority target to rebuild the team and bring stability back to Old Trafford.

 

Photo Credit: Facebook.

 

In a surprising display of openness, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed his willingness to welcome Manchester United’s Erik ten Hag to observe and learn from City’s training sessions. Guardiola’s remarks suggest a camaraderie between two of the Premier League’s most prominent managers, though he conveyed doubts that such a visit would actually take place.

 

During a press conference, Guardiola stated, “We are open to Erik ten Hag visiting us. Anytime! Seriously! Always we are open.” This friendly invitation underscores Guardiola’s respect for Ten Hag, a fellow tactician with whom he shares mutual admiration. Although the invitation is sincere, Guardiola admitted he doesn’t expect Ten Hag to accept it, saying, “But I think it’s not going to happen.”

 

Guardiola, known for his innovative and meticulous coaching style, has often served as a mentor for younger managers. It’s not uncommon for other coaches to study his methods to enhance their own strategies. However, since Ten Hag manages Manchester United—a direct rival to City in the Premier League—the competitive nature of their clubs may make such a collaboration seem unlikely or even counterproductive.

 

Interestingly, Guardiola mentioned his familiarity with Ten Hag’s agent, suggesting a friendly connection that keeps lines of communication open. “But I know his agent a little bit, so the relationship is there, no problem for me, for us…” he added, indicating mutual respect while acknowledging the boundaries that come with being competitors in the same league.

 

Pep Guardiola and Erik ten Hag are both celebrated for their contributions to modern football, with Guardiola lauded for his possession-based, fluid style at Manchester City, and Ten Hag known for his disciplined tactical approach. Although both managers might appreciate sharing insights, the competitive nature of the Premier League could make any real collaboration unlikely.

 

While the invitation may remain hypothetical, it highlights Guardiola’s appreciation for coaching talent and his openness to the exchange of ideas—even across club rivalries.