After Manchester United’s 1-0 pre-season loss to Rosenborg, Erik ten Hag didn’t hold back. Frustrated with the team’s performance, he hinted at issues with several key players, the academy, the medical staff, and perhaps even himself.
“We play pre-season but at Man United the standard is you win games and definitely don’t lose,” Ten Hag told MUTV. He stressed the importance of individual fitness, leaving no specific player exempt from scrutiny, except goalkeeper Radek Vitek.
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The Dutch manager’s comments have raised eyebrows. His dissatisfaction with the young players’ inability to meet basic demands suggests he’s unhappy with the academy’s coaching. The criticism extended to the medical department, despite their efforts to avoid another injury-plagued season.
Ten Hag’s statement that “the performance was below standards” signals his determination to set a high bar for the upcoming season. Following last year’s challenges and his new, yet brief, contract extension, he seems intent on reestablishing authority and avoiding the off-field distractions that troubled him previously.
With upcoming friendlies, including one against Rangers, Ten Hag’s focus is clear: improve performance, maintain discipline, and ensure no repeat of last season’s woes.
The additions of Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro reflect this drive for improvement. As the new season approaches, Ten Hag’s blunt approach might just be what Manchester United needs.
