‘Long-term vision for club’ – Man Utd chief John Murtough reveals seven reasons Erik ten Hag was appointed new boss
MANCHESTER UNITED’s football director John Murtough has revealed the seven reasons why Erik ten Hag was the right choice to be their new manager.
The incoming Red Devils boss was in the crowd to see his side live for the first time in their dismal loss at Crystal Palace on Sunday.
Ten Hag, who has just completed the double in Holland with Ajax, looked cool and composed as he arrived at the stadium but soon cut a frustrated figure and bared his teeth when United fell behind to the match winning goal from Wilfried Zaha.
The 52-year-old then shared his TEN-POINT plan to get United back to the top of world football when he was officially unveiled earlier this week.
Now Murtough, who oversaw the process of identifying United's next manager, has added to excitement amongst the team’s supporters by revealing why Ten Hag was the “standout choice” to take charge.
He says that the Dutchman set out a “long-term vision to build a successful, exciting team” during his interview for the job.
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Ten Hag’s playing philosophy was also the “most closely aligned with the identity and aims of Manchester United” - which included a commitment to attacking football and developing young players.
Murtough told a meeting of the club’s Fans’ Forum: “He showed passion, energy and enthusiasm for the challenge.”
Murtough also added that Ten Hag was a “proven winner” but says United fans must show patience while he rebuilds the club but stressed his early appointment had provided “clarity and confidence” for next season and beyond.
SEVEN REASONS TEN HAG WAS APPOINTED
- Had long-term vision
- Wants to build an exciting team
- Playing philosophy aligned with Man Utd’s identity
- Commitment to attacking football
- Emphasis on developing young players
- A proven winner
- Showed passion and energy for the challenge
And he also revealed that planning is under way for a huge redevelopment of United’s training facilities to ensure they remain world-class.
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Murtough added: “It’s all about making sure we are creating the right environment and culture in which players can perform to their maximum potential.”
A series of “hidden changes” are already underway at Carrington to strengthen support for the playing squad and staff to deliver success.
These involve the scouting and recruitment departments with United also recently appointing their first director of data science.