By Laboured Go To PostThere's no way Barca can afford Moyes.When has that ever stopped them?
By n8 dogg Go To Postthat was the old n8
the new n8 only shares photos with the one-time only setting
I have two phones
By Pedja Go To PostWhen has that ever stopped them?#virtuouscycle
Candidates are the crop that have just been sacked - the only one that hasn't worked at United for 2 years ago before he was let go,
and then there is Southgate.
Shit show of a club.
this along with cancelling the end-of-season awards has been very poor decision-making by INEOS.
and then there is Southgate.
Shit show of a club.
this along with cancelling the end-of-season awards has been very poor decision-making by INEOS.
Didn't realize McKenna was at United during Mourinho. Thought he joined under Ole for some reason. If they want him, he'll go there. But it appears he's going to have options. Nutty people running this sport now days.
By LFMartins86 Go To PostXavi : I´m leaving.Lol right? Absolute jokes the way that run is club. Laporta made an emotional decision because Xavi told the truth. They have zero chance of competing next season with Madrid and are gonna go trophyless again.
Barcelona : Please, please, please, don't leave.
Xavi : I'm stil leaving
Barcelona : PPPPPPPLLLLLLEEEEAAAASEE
Xavi : Fine, I'm staying
Xavi : The club is broke and it will be hard to battle Real Madrid next season
Barcelona : Get the fuck out
Well, at least they didn't bet large chunks of their future revenue on the current playing squad that isn't able to compete...
Really do wonder what kind of hoodoo Ten Hag has over some United fans because he's just had a worse season than David Moyes and they were baying for his blood.
By Perfect Blue Go To PostRemember when United fans crucified Moyes for saying they should be more like City?actually, it was to be more like Everton.
he was showing Rio videos of Jagielka.
By Scum Go To PostBrilliant.. a bundeslolga coach is all we needed
Portugal's U17 won 4-1 against England.
Didn't expect that result, I watched the first half and it was a even game at 1-1, England was unlucky to lead because Portugal's GK made a couple of impressive saves.
This is a really good result that sees Portugal already qualified for the next stage of the Euro's in what was the group of death (the other 2 teams in the group are France and Spain).
Didn't expect that result, I watched the first half and it was a even game at 1-1, England was unlucky to lead because Portugal's GK made a couple of impressive saves.
This is a really good result that sees Portugal already qualified for the next stage of the Euro's in what was the group of death (the other 2 teams in the group are France and Spain).
Huge Ten Hag interview dropped today by the way at the website I have a sub for. Will probably be chopped into bits and published on other websites as 'news' over the coming days. I can throw it in deepl and post it here if there's any interest. It's about 6000 words
Here's the bit about Manchester, the rest is about Ajax and other former clubs.
After a tough and turbulent year of football, Erik ten Hag (54) is preparing for the grand final at Wembley this Saturday with Manchester United. The FA Cup should still give lustre to the fallen superpower's disappointing season. An exclusive interview with The Red Devils' manager.
THE FINALIST
It is Wembley day, the day of the final of the oldest football tournament in the world. And like last year, London's distinctive football temple once again turns light blue and red, with the two rival clubs from Manchester facing each other. Champion City take on the so vulnerable United this season. For the second time in a row, Erik ten Hag reached the FA Cup final with his team. After last year's 2-1 defeat, the Tukker is now hoping for a different finale to the season. 'But we really need to have a super day, that's obvious,' it sounds from the Manchester United manager's mouth on the eve of the final. 'Manchester City is in my eyes the best team in the world.'
It seems an impossible task for you guys beforehand. What gives you confidence in a good outcome?
'I looked back at last year's game, which we really should have won given the odds. What we missed last year was a bit of belief. With absolute belief, we could have won. That was bitter, because it would have been a great stunt. This season it is even harder, because we had a bad season, so it will be even harder to have that real belief. But we are going to do everything we can to do that. We did show this year that we can keep up with the opposition in the big games, that we can be really competitive. Most recently against Arsenal, but also away against City, we had the prospect of a good result for a long time. Liverpool didn't win from us this year, we won from them once. So we have shown that we can compete well in duels with the top three, but we will really have to have a top day.'
Last year, you experienced how special playing the FA Cup final is.
'It is a highlight. The FA Cup is a huge event. It is bigger in England than, say, the Europa League. And in the Netherlands, we also know the rich tradition of this tournament. In the past, as a child, not so many matches were broadcast live in the Netherlands, but the FA Cup final was. Everyone is familiar with it. And I get to experience the final myself for the second year in a row, which is enjoyable. We will definitely do that too, but with the drive to get everything out of it. We will have to be very strong, but it is one match and nothing is impossible.'
THE CRISIS MANAGER
Should Manchester United have the super day and stunt in the final, Ten Hag will end a turbulent season with a prize. It would mark an unexpected end to a year of football in which not a day went by that the coach did not have to improvise. The club went through a turbulent time with the takeover, the sickbay remained structurally overcrowded, with the result that United performed shakily and could not continue the upward trend of the first season under Ten Hag.
Recently, The Athletic investigated last season's injury woes and the conclusion was crystal clear: of all the clubs in the Premier League, Manchester United missed by far the most players through injury. There is therefore a clear causal link between the number of goals against and the many injuries in the final line. The various data confirm Ten Hag's daily feelings and experiences. 'Of everyone in the organisation, I have had the most contact with the club doctor this season. I think that says it all.'
What is predominant feeling when you think back on this season?
'It's very disappointing. We have a bad year, of course, that's obvious. I'm still in the middle of the season, the real looking back comes later. But you set yourself certain goals beforehand, and this season we should have taken the next step. Last year was a top season, it was overperforming what we performed at the club. Especially when you start thinking back in hindsight what all came our way that year as well. For example, we had no striker, we had to deal with that for a whole year, but we did have a top scorer with Marcus Rashford. We were very stable from the back, had the most clean sheets in the Premier League, and were hard to beat. This season we wanted to take the next step, but it didn't work out.'
While at this time last year, on paper, everything still seemed so logical to continue the upward trend.
'In terms of filling the selection, yes. The plan was clear. We buy a striker and get another goalkeeper, who is able to shape the football from behind even better, and an extra midfielder. That was the approach and in theory we would then be stronger and be able to take the next step. But practice has turned out to be completely different. That has mainly to do with all the injuries, especially in the final line.'
The weekly question this season: how big is the sickbay again?
'It was constantly balancing on a thin tightrope. It's really bizarre. Recently in my starting line-up I had the fifteenth pair in the centre of defence, I had 33 different last lines! In the first few weeks maybe out of luxury, to see what suited best, but very soon it was purely out of necessity. And not just centrally at the back. Sofyan Amrabat has played left-back four times. Just to give an example of necessity. We have had injuries all over the squad. Casemiro, for example, has been absent for a long time. Rasmus Højlund, the striker you buy, has had three injuries this season, and I could go on and on. That's in a nutshell what the core of this season is.'
How frustrating are all those injuries?
'As a coach, some things are in your control, but also some things are not. And that often includes injuries. That actually started during our second game of preparation, against Real Madrid, at the end of July. Kobbie Mainoo sustained syndesmosis injuries to his ankle. He was sidelined until November. Brutal bad luck. During the tour, we had played another strong game against Arsenal a few days earlier. But that injury to Mainoo seemed like the starting signal for continued physical setbacks. Injuries again and again.'
'Of course I make analyses of what needs to be improved on a physical level as well, as I always do. But during the season, there was simply no way to counter this. Take someone like Tyrell Malacia. He hasn't played a minute all season, he hasn't even been on the training pitch once. And we had recruited Malacia at the start of last season precisely as a back-up for Luke Shaw, those two options had to bring us a lot. Shaw is the best left-back in the world, he is so good, only, he had a very serious injury at the beginning of his career. As a result, he will never be able to play 60 games in a year. The thought with Malacia there was very good, and he just did well last season as well. Very valuable. But this season we never had him there.'
So the selection was not wide enough in quality. And that for a rich club like Manchester United.
'In terms of width, we did initially have enough in numbers on paper. I even recruited an extra defender last summer: Jonny Evans. He was like our insurance policy. He was our fifth central defender. Evans is an acquaintance of the club and asked to train with the pledges. A lot of internationals were not there, so he could train with us. We took him in just to be on the safe side, but for weeks he was the only central defender I had at my disposal. Or take a player like Willy Kambwala. A player from the pledges, with whom we did not immediately think he would play a role in the first team. For instance, he was not even on the tour, even with the second. He was not in the picture for a long time, but he had to make the necessary minutes with us.'
Then you are manager of Manchester United and you have to improvise every time.
'It's constantly improvising and compromising. I had a very clear idea of the direction we needed to go, but because of all these injuries, and some other off-field issues, you never get that done. In this whole season, we have only had two games when we had the selection almost complete. Then we only had a couple of players who were not match-fit, but injury-free. That was Wolves away and West Ham United at home. Those were actually the only duels in which I could work towards a fixed starting eleven. With Onana on goal, at the back with Dalot on the right, in the centre with Varane and Martínez, and Shaw on the left. In midfield with Casemiro, Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes, and up front with Garnacho, Højlund and Rashford. We played very well at Wolves and also against West Ham United we showed what we were capable of, but twenty minutes before time a player of theirs fell on Lisandro Martínez and he tore his knee ligament. And that's where the hassle actually started again, because not much later Shaw also dropped out with an injury. We had lost our left-back and left central defender again. That affected a lot of stability at the back.'
How difficult is it to continuously have to make concessions to your football vision?
'Last year too, I had to make concessions to my football vision. Because we were also able to play more difficult football from the back then. It depends on your goalkeeper and rearguard to what extent we can shape positional play from the back. With players like Onana and Martínez, you get build-up from the back. If you take the combination of Martínez and Shaw, then you have two left-legged players at the back who are strong on the ball, with the right angles on the pitch, and then the positional play takes shape. But we have rarely had the triangle at the back with Onana-Martínez-Shaw this season. Add to that in midfield the loss of Mainoo and Casemiro and positional play from the back takes on a whole new dimension. And not only in the moment itself, but also in the development of your playing style, you then get stuck. And you have to make concessions to your style of play to still get some results.'
There are plausible arguments, but many people are miffed about that. Manchester United must always win. Especially after your first season at the club, expectations were suddenly high again.
'Manchester United last became champions in 2013, 11 years ago, but the expectation is that we will win every game and play at the top of the Premier League for a while. This club is not ready for that at all. We were going to build. And last year we took a good step. But then you still see how big United is and that it is never good. Inside the club, everyone was happy, but from the outside world there were noises like: You win the Carabao Cup, you lose the FA Cup final and you are only third... Then you have no sense of reality. Selections from other clubs were just better.'
But eighth place with Manchester United is again the other extreme.
'Let's be clear: it's also just bad, it's just dregs. But despite everything, we are in the FA Cup final. That's all there is to it at the moment. With all these problems, this is the maximum we can do.'
And then there was the takeover of Manchester United by INEOS. The calm must have disappeared internally?
'When I came, it was already unsettled, as the club was in a transition phase. But now, with the change of guard, everything is really upside down. And let it be clear that this absolutely does not have to be a bad thing for the club, as all intentions will undoubtedly be good. The future will tell.
How difficult are the current takeover woes for a coach?
'For me, it's football that counts. Despite all the hustle and bustle, I focus completely on the team every day, to make it play football as well as possible.'
But what do the owners say about your future?
'I learn that they want to change everything but build with me. At least that's what they say directly to me and what they express.'
What do you notice that they want to change everything?
'I do notice that certain processes have been set in motion. With people within the organisation, but also in terms of the environment. Our Carrington training complex is going to be completely demolished, a whole new complex will come in its place. They are tackling all kinds of things, starting with the infrastructure.'
Was it actually enjoyable this season: being manager of Manchester United?
'I can definitely enjoy it. You are also obliged to do that as a manager, that you show resilience. If I don't, then things go hard. Then everyone gets dejected and negative. But it does take a huge amount of energy this season. This season is by far the hardest season I have ever had. Of course I also have my moments of frustration and disappointment, but a little later I pick things up again and carry on. Because I know what needs to be improved and where we want to go with this club.'
THE WARRIOR
The seemingly most difficult coaching job in the world: being manager of Manchester United. Since Sir Alex Ferguson's departure, it has become a tombola of trainers. Every manager tried to turn the tide, but each time disappointment won out over euphoria. Ten Hag experienced it himself last year. Whereas in his first season he still received plenty of compliments and pats on the back, this year the Tukker was increasingly criticised. For some time now, according to certain English media, it is no longer a question of if, but when Ten Hag's era at Old Trafford ends. And he thus enters the long list of the coaching graveyard at Manchester United. 'I am not at all concerned with that myself, because I know what it takes to get back on top with this club. That's where all my energy goes every day.'
But will you also be coach of Manchester United next season?
'I still have a one-year contract and am already busy with next season as well. The analysis on this season, what needs to happen next summer, what is needed in the selection, and also things like the preparation. But at the moment, only the FA Cup final counts. What happens after that, I don't know. Only that a holiday also feels good to recharge the battery.'
What is it like to hear or read things everywhere about your future at the club?
'I can shut myself off from it. But it does make work more difficult, because my environment, and therefore the players, does get affected by it.'
De kritiek is ook niet mals in Engeland.
'The analytics, who think themselves great, need to score and live up to their money, and do so eagerly. Manchester United is then easy prey. It is the biggest club in the country and perhaps the world. The club is either hated or loved. There is nothing in between. So when something doesn't go well at United, everyone falls over each other to say something about it in strong words. All that negativism from those so-called connoisseurs, who don't have the ability to actually analyse what is going on, but mainly want to attack people to benefit themselves.'
'It is also often the same people who gave me one pat on the back after another last year. That again was the other extreme, then they make you look way too big. Last year I could walk on water, and this year I am the worst manager in the Premier League. Ah well, that's how it goes apparently. Nice scoring for themselves. It doesn't matter so much to me, because I know the reason behind it. A good analyst, who understands football, who sees it and can appreciate this season and the phase of the process.'
'But at the same time, I am absolutely not running away from my responsibility either. Good is good and bad is bad. It's actually like a ministerial post. If the officials make a mess of things, the minister is held responsible for it. That is how it works in football, and it is the same in this case. Of course I am held responsible for the poor results. That is justified, but if you delve into everything that has happened here, you also see that it is a very complex story, which no coach could have done anything about.'
At one point, a report came through that you would bar journalists from press moments at the club. Surely that must be a mistake?
'That is indeed a bit more nuanced. We played the FA Cup semi-final against Coventry City. Seventy minutes were good, we were leading 3-0, but then we gave away the lead and things almost went wrong. Fortunately, we still won and qualified for the final, but three journalists found it necessary to arrive with all kinds of supporters' cries and to attack us and me. It was outrageous what I had done, it was embarrassing of me. Embarrassing this and that. If we had lost, I could have imagined this, but we made it to the final.'
'But it was all about the arguments. Because I had swapped Mainoo and Garnacho, we almost lost. However, both players were in the red, physically unable to continue and at 3-0 we had to change them. There was full on manoeuvring and they made it personal towards me. I said something about that, but I did not bar them from press moments at all. I accept a lot and am professional, but there are also limits. The least I should expect is a professional attitude. So they remained welcome at press moments, but why should I answer questions from a fan? That's up to me. As a matter of fact, I later invited them for an interview and I think that was good from both sides.'
There has also been much criticism of the acquisition policy. Your reinforcements have not delivered, is then the view.
'That perception is alive and well, but in my opinion you should then also be able to make the analysis by explaining players separately. And then you see that nuances are in place. Martinez and Hojlund are full-backs, while Onana is also proving his worth after a difficult start. Malacia in turn had a strong first season, as did Casemiro. The latter shot us to the Champions League with his play and goals. But, like Martinez, Malacia and Casemiro have been dealing with injuries this season. And take Mason Mount. At Chelsea never injured, while with us he has already had five injuries. Christian Eriksen came on transfer free and was very good in his first season, but slightly less so this year, but again that's driven by Mainoo's strong development.'
But acquisitions always quickly go over 100 million for Antony.
'The prices paid for players are indeed very high, but I am not responsible for that. The club did all the negotiations, including with very good potential players who ultimately did not come. So it is all a bit more nuanced than the picture that is being painted that the purchasing policy is disastrous.'
The injuries, the reviews, the hassle with new owners. What gives you hope that things will improve next season?
'It is all negative, but despite all the problems, the foundation at the club has become stronger. That may not all be visible to the outside world now, but everyone internally will make that analysis. With talents like Mainoo, Garnacho, Højlund and also someone like Amad Diallo, who has developed very strongly, the future looks bright. If injuries like Martínez, Shaw and also Malacia are match-fit again and can play a series of duels, we will get a boost. Or someone like Mason Mount, an important player, but he is currently in his fifth injury of the season.'
'Then there is a strong middle group. Onana has proved to be the reinforcement after a difficult start and that without a solid last line in front of him. Dalot has developed fine this season, the same goes for Scott McTominay, who scored 10 goals, and Harry Maguire. And Bruno Fernandes, with 15 goals and 12 assists, is just one of the standouts in the Premier League in the second half of the season, he has done super. So there really is a solid foundation in the selection. If we make a good transfer window now, then we can really pick up the rebuilding and make some nice steps.'
After each season, you make an in-depth analysis of what went right and what went wrong, and especially what needs to happen in the summer. In your view, what needs to happen at Manchester United in the coming transfer summer?
'We need to add a striker, with Højlund. And suppose we manage to get another central midfielder and a replacement for Varane, then I think things look very good for next season. With the caveat that the players are fit and stay fit. Then you can start playing towards the top four with such an eleven. That gives hope and is also realistic in my eyes.'
But then again, like last year, you are talking about theory and practice. Because physically, things might have to be completely different, to avoid going from one injury wave to another.
'I do have my thoughts on that, I also know the cause and the solution, but I keep those to myself. However, hard nuts will have to be cracked to avoid going through another season like that on the physical front.'
You are focused on next season, while on the other hand it remains to be seen what the new owners will do with you, and there is also interest from other clubs. You can also think: I'm just going to make the move to a more stable club and environment myself.
'I am and will remain combative. And what will happen or not happen around it all, I will notice. That tends towards politics. And I cannot and do not want to be influenced by that any further.'
There have been noises from Amsterdam for some time that you were at the top of the list for the new head coach.
'Maybe they think I will be fired and then I will be available. I never gave it even a second thought myself. Nor have I ever wanted to, because my focus is entirely on Manchester United.'
There has been no contact?
'I am not involved in that at all. Several clubs have inquired in recent times, but that doesn't have my attention. I went to Manchester United with an aim to make something of it here, and I still feel that way. To put the club where it belongs. And I'm working very hard at that every day.'
Next season another Dutch manager is heading to England. How do you view Arne Slot's move to Liverpool?
'I think it is a very good and nice choice from both sides. For the Dutch trainers' guild, this is great. And Arne Slot also fits Liverpool with his philosophy. It also fits the hand of Jürgen Klopp and Pepijn Lijnders. They have left behind a strong foundation. He comes into a better position than I did at the time when I went to Manchester United from the Netherlands. In terms of structure at the club, in terms of balance in the selection.'
'Last year they had a transition in the team. Then guys like Fabinho and Henderson left. Last season at Liverpool they also had a bit of the year we had now, with a lot of injuries. Someone like Díaz, defining player, was also injured a lot. They reorganised the midfield there last year. And that stands now, with Endo, Mac Allister, Jones and Szoboszlai, and Gravenberch playing more and more. Incidentally, Gakpo has also been playing really well in recent weeks. Núñez is a dangerous striker, Konaté forms a very strong duo with Van Dijk. Alisson Becker is a strong goalkeeper. With Alexander-Arnold and Robertson, Liverpool have good backs. He will probably have to find a good replacement for Salah, though. That won't be easy. But that's all up to Slot and Liverpool's club management. But it could certainly be a great match.'
Source: https://www.vi.nl/pro/overig/erik-ten-hag-spreekt-zich-uit-dit-is-veruit-het-moeilijkste-seizoen-dat-ik-ooit-heb-gehad
After a tough and turbulent year of football, Erik ten Hag (54) is preparing for the grand final at Wembley this Saturday with Manchester United. The FA Cup should still give lustre to the fallen superpower's disappointing season. An exclusive interview with The Red Devils' manager.
THE FINALIST
It is Wembley day, the day of the final of the oldest football tournament in the world. And like last year, London's distinctive football temple once again turns light blue and red, with the two rival clubs from Manchester facing each other. Champion City take on the so vulnerable United this season. For the second time in a row, Erik ten Hag reached the FA Cup final with his team. After last year's 2-1 defeat, the Tukker is now hoping for a different finale to the season. 'But we really need to have a super day, that's obvious,' it sounds from the Manchester United manager's mouth on the eve of the final. 'Manchester City is in my eyes the best team in the world.'
It seems an impossible task for you guys beforehand. What gives you confidence in a good outcome?
'I looked back at last year's game, which we really should have won given the odds. What we missed last year was a bit of belief. With absolute belief, we could have won. That was bitter, because it would have been a great stunt. This season it is even harder, because we had a bad season, so it will be even harder to have that real belief. But we are going to do everything we can to do that. We did show this year that we can keep up with the opposition in the big games, that we can be really competitive. Most recently against Arsenal, but also away against City, we had the prospect of a good result for a long time. Liverpool didn't win from us this year, we won from them once. So we have shown that we can compete well in duels with the top three, but we will really have to have a top day.'
Last year, you experienced how special playing the FA Cup final is.
'It is a highlight. The FA Cup is a huge event. It is bigger in England than, say, the Europa League. And in the Netherlands, we also know the rich tradition of this tournament. In the past, as a child, not so many matches were broadcast live in the Netherlands, but the FA Cup final was. Everyone is familiar with it. And I get to experience the final myself for the second year in a row, which is enjoyable. We will definitely do that too, but with the drive to get everything out of it. We will have to be very strong, but it is one match and nothing is impossible.'
THE CRISIS MANAGER
Should Manchester United have the super day and stunt in the final, Ten Hag will end a turbulent season with a prize. It would mark an unexpected end to a year of football in which not a day went by that the coach did not have to improvise. The club went through a turbulent time with the takeover, the sickbay remained structurally overcrowded, with the result that United performed shakily and could not continue the upward trend of the first season under Ten Hag.
Recently, The Athletic investigated last season's injury woes and the conclusion was crystal clear: of all the clubs in the Premier League, Manchester United missed by far the most players through injury. There is therefore a clear causal link between the number of goals against and the many injuries in the final line. The various data confirm Ten Hag's daily feelings and experiences. 'Of everyone in the organisation, I have had the most contact with the club doctor this season. I think that says it all.'
What is predominant feeling when you think back on this season?
'It's very disappointing. We have a bad year, of course, that's obvious. I'm still in the middle of the season, the real looking back comes later. But you set yourself certain goals beforehand, and this season we should have taken the next step. Last year was a top season, it was overperforming what we performed at the club. Especially when you start thinking back in hindsight what all came our way that year as well. For example, we had no striker, we had to deal with that for a whole year, but we did have a top scorer with Marcus Rashford. We were very stable from the back, had the most clean sheets in the Premier League, and were hard to beat. This season we wanted to take the next step, but it didn't work out.'
While at this time last year, on paper, everything still seemed so logical to continue the upward trend.
'In terms of filling the selection, yes. The plan was clear. We buy a striker and get another goalkeeper, who is able to shape the football from behind even better, and an extra midfielder. That was the approach and in theory we would then be stronger and be able to take the next step. But practice has turned out to be completely different. That has mainly to do with all the injuries, especially in the final line.'
The weekly question this season: how big is the sickbay again?
'It was constantly balancing on a thin tightrope. It's really bizarre. Recently in my starting line-up I had the fifteenth pair in the centre of defence, I had 33 different last lines! In the first few weeks maybe out of luxury, to see what suited best, but very soon it was purely out of necessity. And not just centrally at the back. Sofyan Amrabat has played left-back four times. Just to give an example of necessity. We have had injuries all over the squad. Casemiro, for example, has been absent for a long time. Rasmus Højlund, the striker you buy, has had three injuries this season, and I could go on and on. That's in a nutshell what the core of this season is.'
How frustrating are all those injuries?
'As a coach, some things are in your control, but also some things are not. And that often includes injuries. That actually started during our second game of preparation, against Real Madrid, at the end of July. Kobbie Mainoo sustained syndesmosis injuries to his ankle. He was sidelined until November. Brutal bad luck. During the tour, we had played another strong game against Arsenal a few days earlier. But that injury to Mainoo seemed like the starting signal for continued physical setbacks. Injuries again and again.'
'Of course I make analyses of what needs to be improved on a physical level as well, as I always do. But during the season, there was simply no way to counter this. Take someone like Tyrell Malacia. He hasn't played a minute all season, he hasn't even been on the training pitch once. And we had recruited Malacia at the start of last season precisely as a back-up for Luke Shaw, those two options had to bring us a lot. Shaw is the best left-back in the world, he is so good, only, he had a very serious injury at the beginning of his career. As a result, he will never be able to play 60 games in a year. The thought with Malacia there was very good, and he just did well last season as well. Very valuable. But this season we never had him there.'
So the selection was not wide enough in quality. And that for a rich club like Manchester United.
'In terms of width, we did initially have enough in numbers on paper. I even recruited an extra defender last summer: Jonny Evans. He was like our insurance policy. He was our fifth central defender. Evans is an acquaintance of the club and asked to train with the pledges. A lot of internationals were not there, so he could train with us. We took him in just to be on the safe side, but for weeks he was the only central defender I had at my disposal. Or take a player like Willy Kambwala. A player from the pledges, with whom we did not immediately think he would play a role in the first team. For instance, he was not even on the tour, even with the second. He was not in the picture for a long time, but he had to make the necessary minutes with us.'
Then you are manager of Manchester United and you have to improvise every time.
'It's constantly improvising and compromising. I had a very clear idea of the direction we needed to go, but because of all these injuries, and some other off-field issues, you never get that done. In this whole season, we have only had two games when we had the selection almost complete. Then we only had a couple of players who were not match-fit, but injury-free. That was Wolves away and West Ham United at home. Those were actually the only duels in which I could work towards a fixed starting eleven. With Onana on goal, at the back with Dalot on the right, in the centre with Varane and Martínez, and Shaw on the left. In midfield with Casemiro, Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes, and up front with Garnacho, Højlund and Rashford. We played very well at Wolves and also against West Ham United we showed what we were capable of, but twenty minutes before time a player of theirs fell on Lisandro Martínez and he tore his knee ligament. And that's where the hassle actually started again, because not much later Shaw also dropped out with an injury. We had lost our left-back and left central defender again. That affected a lot of stability at the back.'
How difficult is it to continuously have to make concessions to your football vision?
'Last year too, I had to make concessions to my football vision. Because we were also able to play more difficult football from the back then. It depends on your goalkeeper and rearguard to what extent we can shape positional play from the back. With players like Onana and Martínez, you get build-up from the back. If you take the combination of Martínez and Shaw, then you have two left-legged players at the back who are strong on the ball, with the right angles on the pitch, and then the positional play takes shape. But we have rarely had the triangle at the back with Onana-Martínez-Shaw this season. Add to that in midfield the loss of Mainoo and Casemiro and positional play from the back takes on a whole new dimension. And not only in the moment itself, but also in the development of your playing style, you then get stuck. And you have to make concessions to your style of play to still get some results.'
There are plausible arguments, but many people are miffed about that. Manchester United must always win. Especially after your first season at the club, expectations were suddenly high again.
'Manchester United last became champions in 2013, 11 years ago, but the expectation is that we will win every game and play at the top of the Premier League for a while. This club is not ready for that at all. We were going to build. And last year we took a good step. But then you still see how big United is and that it is never good. Inside the club, everyone was happy, but from the outside world there were noises like: You win the Carabao Cup, you lose the FA Cup final and you are only third... Then you have no sense of reality. Selections from other clubs were just better.'
But eighth place with Manchester United is again the other extreme.
'Let's be clear: it's also just bad, it's just dregs. But despite everything, we are in the FA Cup final. That's all there is to it at the moment. With all these problems, this is the maximum we can do.'
And then there was the takeover of Manchester United by INEOS. The calm must have disappeared internally?
'When I came, it was already unsettled, as the club was in a transition phase. But now, with the change of guard, everything is really upside down. And let it be clear that this absolutely does not have to be a bad thing for the club, as all intentions will undoubtedly be good. The future will tell.
How difficult are the current takeover woes for a coach?
'For me, it's football that counts. Despite all the hustle and bustle, I focus completely on the team every day, to make it play football as well as possible.'
But what do the owners say about your future?
'I learn that they want to change everything but build with me. At least that's what they say directly to me and what they express.'
What do you notice that they want to change everything?
'I do notice that certain processes have been set in motion. With people within the organisation, but also in terms of the environment. Our Carrington training complex is going to be completely demolished, a whole new complex will come in its place. They are tackling all kinds of things, starting with the infrastructure.'
Was it actually enjoyable this season: being manager of Manchester United?
'I can definitely enjoy it. You are also obliged to do that as a manager, that you show resilience. If I don't, then things go hard. Then everyone gets dejected and negative. But it does take a huge amount of energy this season. This season is by far the hardest season I have ever had. Of course I also have my moments of frustration and disappointment, but a little later I pick things up again and carry on. Because I know what needs to be improved and where we want to go with this club.'
THE WARRIOR
The seemingly most difficult coaching job in the world: being manager of Manchester United. Since Sir Alex Ferguson's departure, it has become a tombola of trainers. Every manager tried to turn the tide, but each time disappointment won out over euphoria. Ten Hag experienced it himself last year. Whereas in his first season he still received plenty of compliments and pats on the back, this year the Tukker was increasingly criticised. For some time now, according to certain English media, it is no longer a question of if, but when Ten Hag's era at Old Trafford ends. And he thus enters the long list of the coaching graveyard at Manchester United. 'I am not at all concerned with that myself, because I know what it takes to get back on top with this club. That's where all my energy goes every day.'
But will you also be coach of Manchester United next season?
'I still have a one-year contract and am already busy with next season as well. The analysis on this season, what needs to happen next summer, what is needed in the selection, and also things like the preparation. But at the moment, only the FA Cup final counts. What happens after that, I don't know. Only that a holiday also feels good to recharge the battery.'
What is it like to hear or read things everywhere about your future at the club?
'I can shut myself off from it. But it does make work more difficult, because my environment, and therefore the players, does get affected by it.'
De kritiek is ook niet mals in Engeland.
'The analytics, who think themselves great, need to score and live up to their money, and do so eagerly. Manchester United is then easy prey. It is the biggest club in the country and perhaps the world. The club is either hated or loved. There is nothing in between. So when something doesn't go well at United, everyone falls over each other to say something about it in strong words. All that negativism from those so-called connoisseurs, who don't have the ability to actually analyse what is going on, but mainly want to attack people to benefit themselves.'
'It is also often the same people who gave me one pat on the back after another last year. That again was the other extreme, then they make you look way too big. Last year I could walk on water, and this year I am the worst manager in the Premier League. Ah well, that's how it goes apparently. Nice scoring for themselves. It doesn't matter so much to me, because I know the reason behind it. A good analyst, who understands football, who sees it and can appreciate this season and the phase of the process.'
'But at the same time, I am absolutely not running away from my responsibility either. Good is good and bad is bad. It's actually like a ministerial post. If the officials make a mess of things, the minister is held responsible for it. That is how it works in football, and it is the same in this case. Of course I am held responsible for the poor results. That is justified, but if you delve into everything that has happened here, you also see that it is a very complex story, which no coach could have done anything about.'
At one point, a report came through that you would bar journalists from press moments at the club. Surely that must be a mistake?
'That is indeed a bit more nuanced. We played the FA Cup semi-final against Coventry City. Seventy minutes were good, we were leading 3-0, but then we gave away the lead and things almost went wrong. Fortunately, we still won and qualified for the final, but three journalists found it necessary to arrive with all kinds of supporters' cries and to attack us and me. It was outrageous what I had done, it was embarrassing of me. Embarrassing this and that. If we had lost, I could have imagined this, but we made it to the final.'
'But it was all about the arguments. Because I had swapped Mainoo and Garnacho, we almost lost. However, both players were in the red, physically unable to continue and at 3-0 we had to change them. There was full on manoeuvring and they made it personal towards me. I said something about that, but I did not bar them from press moments at all. I accept a lot and am professional, but there are also limits. The least I should expect is a professional attitude. So they remained welcome at press moments, but why should I answer questions from a fan? That's up to me. As a matter of fact, I later invited them for an interview and I think that was good from both sides.'
There has also been much criticism of the acquisition policy. Your reinforcements have not delivered, is then the view.
'That perception is alive and well, but in my opinion you should then also be able to make the analysis by explaining players separately. And then you see that nuances are in place. Martinez and Hojlund are full-backs, while Onana is also proving his worth after a difficult start. Malacia in turn had a strong first season, as did Casemiro. The latter shot us to the Champions League with his play and goals. But, like Martinez, Malacia and Casemiro have been dealing with injuries this season. And take Mason Mount. At Chelsea never injured, while with us he has already had five injuries. Christian Eriksen came on transfer free and was very good in his first season, but slightly less so this year, but again that's driven by Mainoo's strong development.'
But acquisitions always quickly go over 100 million for Antony.
'The prices paid for players are indeed very high, but I am not responsible for that. The club did all the negotiations, including with very good potential players who ultimately did not come. So it is all a bit more nuanced than the picture that is being painted that the purchasing policy is disastrous.'
The injuries, the reviews, the hassle with new owners. What gives you hope that things will improve next season?
'It is all negative, but despite all the problems, the foundation at the club has become stronger. That may not all be visible to the outside world now, but everyone internally will make that analysis. With talents like Mainoo, Garnacho, Højlund and also someone like Amad Diallo, who has developed very strongly, the future looks bright. If injuries like Martínez, Shaw and also Malacia are match-fit again and can play a series of duels, we will get a boost. Or someone like Mason Mount, an important player, but he is currently in his fifth injury of the season.'
'Then there is a strong middle group. Onana has proved to be the reinforcement after a difficult start and that without a solid last line in front of him. Dalot has developed fine this season, the same goes for Scott McTominay, who scored 10 goals, and Harry Maguire. And Bruno Fernandes, with 15 goals and 12 assists, is just one of the standouts in the Premier League in the second half of the season, he has done super. So there really is a solid foundation in the selection. If we make a good transfer window now, then we can really pick up the rebuilding and make some nice steps.'
After each season, you make an in-depth analysis of what went right and what went wrong, and especially what needs to happen in the summer. In your view, what needs to happen at Manchester United in the coming transfer summer?
'We need to add a striker, with Højlund. And suppose we manage to get another central midfielder and a replacement for Varane, then I think things look very good for next season. With the caveat that the players are fit and stay fit. Then you can start playing towards the top four with such an eleven. That gives hope and is also realistic in my eyes.'
But then again, like last year, you are talking about theory and practice. Because physically, things might have to be completely different, to avoid going from one injury wave to another.
'I do have my thoughts on that, I also know the cause and the solution, but I keep those to myself. However, hard nuts will have to be cracked to avoid going through another season like that on the physical front.'
You are focused on next season, while on the other hand it remains to be seen what the new owners will do with you, and there is also interest from other clubs. You can also think: I'm just going to make the move to a more stable club and environment myself.
'I am and will remain combative. And what will happen or not happen around it all, I will notice. That tends towards politics. And I cannot and do not want to be influenced by that any further.'
There have been noises from Amsterdam for some time that you were at the top of the list for the new head coach.
'Maybe they think I will be fired and then I will be available. I never gave it even a second thought myself. Nor have I ever wanted to, because my focus is entirely on Manchester United.'
There has been no contact?
'I am not involved in that at all. Several clubs have inquired in recent times, but that doesn't have my attention. I went to Manchester United with an aim to make something of it here, and I still feel that way. To put the club where it belongs. And I'm working very hard at that every day.'
Next season another Dutch manager is heading to England. How do you view Arne Slot's move to Liverpool?
'I think it is a very good and nice choice from both sides. For the Dutch trainers' guild, this is great. And Arne Slot also fits Liverpool with his philosophy. It also fits the hand of Jürgen Klopp and Pepijn Lijnders. They have left behind a strong foundation. He comes into a better position than I did at the time when I went to Manchester United from the Netherlands. In terms of structure at the club, in terms of balance in the selection.'
'Last year they had a transition in the team. Then guys like Fabinho and Henderson left. Last season at Liverpool they also had a bit of the year we had now, with a lot of injuries. Someone like Díaz, defining player, was also injured a lot. They reorganised the midfield there last year. And that stands now, with Endo, Mac Allister, Jones and Szoboszlai, and Gravenberch playing more and more. Incidentally, Gakpo has also been playing really well in recent weeks. Núñez is a dangerous striker, Konaté forms a very strong duo with Van Dijk. Alisson Becker is a strong goalkeeper. With Alexander-Arnold and Robertson, Liverpool have good backs. He will probably have to find a good replacement for Salah, though. That won't be easy. But that's all up to Slot and Liverpool's club management. But it could certainly be a great match.'
Source: https://www.vi.nl/pro/overig/erik-ten-hag-spreekt-zich-uit-dit-is-veruit-het-moeilijkste-seizoen-dat-ik-ooit-heb-gehad
A Game of Thrones
A Clash of Kings
A Storm of Swords
A Feast for Crows
A Dance with Dragons
A Tombola of Trainers
A Clash of Kings
A Storm of Swords
A Feast for Crows
A Dance with Dragons
A Tombola of Trainers
@Will yeah hard disagree from me too, actually touched upon that bit in the WhatsApp group already.
@punished I was so surprised by that tiny desk yesterday, good fun, trip down memory lane
@punished I was so surprised by that tiny desk yesterday, good fun, trip down memory lane
Here to repeat what I said to big Linius in the whatsapps:
Injuries are not the reason we had minus goal difference and were 16th in xG. Newcastle had as many injuries as us this season. His tactics were abysmal. With our entire team out he should have played more conservatively
Injuries are not the reason we had minus goal difference and were 16th in xG. Newcastle had as many injuries as us this season. His tactics were abysmal. With our entire team out he should have played more conservatively
Don’t know if that’s the full interview.
But he literally takes no responsibility at all for this season, it’s solely down to injuries and things outside his control.
It’s all well and good crying about the LB situation for example, but many don’t send Reguilon away at the very beginning of the window when your backup LB has been out the entire season and your 1st choice is fucking Luke Shaw…?
But he literally takes no responsibility at all for this season, it’s solely down to injuries and things outside his control.
It’s all well and good crying about the LB situation for example, but many don’t send Reguilon away at the very beginning of the window when your backup LB has been out the entire season and your 1st choice is fucking Luke Shaw…?
This is everything regarding United and the season they’ve had. Final third is all about Ajax, Utrecht and Twente. And a bit on PSV and Feyenoord this season. He compliments Bosz and PSV on the season they’ve had. As well as says Feyenoord have been overrated this past season. They’ve been stable but a far cry from PSV.
By Punished Go To PostWatched this yesterday. She still sounds amazing.
By Batong Go To PostHappy bold with the new incoming manager?The cosmic ballet goes on, Batong.
By Dazenheimer Go To PostWatched this yesterday. She still looks amazing..
10 Hag’s biggest problem is that he’s a charisma vacuum and makes it so easy for the pundits and fans to turn on him. If he were a better presence in the media, he’d have been congratulated for making through a rough season and ending it with a FA Cup Final
By Oddinho Go To Post10 Hag’s biggest problem is that he’s a charisma vacuum and makes it so easy for the pundits and fans to turn on him. If he were a better presence in the media, he’d have been congratulated for making through a rough season and ending it with a FA Cup FinalThat is unbearably naive.
We're on our 7th coach in 11 years. This is man united. The pundits will find something, they always do.
By Dazenheimer Go To PostThat is unbearably naive.Some say the McKenna script has already been written.
We're on our 7th coach in 11 years. This is man united. The pundits will find something, they always do.
By Patriotism Go To Post10 inch gone?
Time for The Imperator.
Not sure how we can lose with this lad on the touchlines.
