Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has expressed confidence in the club’s future, highlighting the positive impact of changes to the football hierarchy and the recent FA Cup triumph. Just a week after signing a contract extension until 2026, Ten Hag emphasized his belief in the club’s direction, stating that he wouldn’t have extended his contract if he wasn’t excited about the upcoming season.
Ten Hag believes the new football hierarchy, spearheaded by British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe as head of football operations, sporting director Dan Ashworth, and technical director Jason Wilcox, will significantly enhance the team’s performance. This new structure will provide crucial support across various departments, including scouting, recruitment, medical, and performance, ultimately raising the bar for the club.
The manager pointed to the recent FA Cup victory over Manchester City as a testament to the team’s potential and a source of confidence going forward. He acknowledged the challenges faced during the previous season, which saw them finish in a disappointing eighth place in the Premier League, but remains optimistic about the team’s ability to compete for titles. The club is currently addressing defensive weaknesses, with reports suggesting a major overhaul is in the works.
Ten Hag also expressed his support for Manchester United players Kobbie Mainoo and Luke Shaw, who are currently representing England in the European Championship. The manager is eagerly anticipating the England-Netherlands semi-final match, recognizing the cultural significance of football in both countries.
Looking ahead, Manchester United will begin their pre-season campaign on Monday with a match against Norwegian team Rosenborg in Trondheim. The team is entering a new chapter, with a renewed focus on success and a strengthened infrastructure to support their ambitions.
