In a candid conversation with the Dutch newspaper, Telegraaf, Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt opened up about his former manager Erik ten Hag’s time at Manchester United. De Ligt, who rose to prominence under ten Hag’s tutelage at Ajax, expressed disappointment over ten Hag’s tenure at Old Trafford, emphasising missed opportunities despite strong performances.
The Ten Hag and De Ligt Connection
De Ligt’s journey with ten Hag dates back to their remarkable days at Ajax, where the duo came tantalisingly close to reaching the UEFA Champions League final. Their reunion at Manchester United was seen as a continuation of their unfinished business. De Ligt mentioned, “He brought me to United, the goal was to achieve success together with Erik,” indicating the high hopes they both shared for their collaboration at the English club.
Unrealised Potential at Manchester United
Speaking about ten Hag’s tenure, de Ligt admitted, “Ten Hag has not been very lucky. We played well in many games, but we did not take advantage of the chances we got.” This statement highlights a recurring theme in ten Hag’s managerial phase at Manchester United—promising plays that failed to convert into victories.
The sentiment resonates with the fans’ and pundits’ views; solid performances were overshadowed by a lack of finishing prowess. Several matches showcased Manchester United’s control and dominance in play but were marred by missed scoring opportunities, leaving supporters and club management frustrated.
The Road Under Ten Hag
Erik ten Hag’s appointment was met with much enthusiasm, as expectations were high given his success with Ajax. Fans eagerly anticipated a return to the quintessential ‘United way’ of play—attacking football filled with flair. However, the journey was rocky, with inconsistent form and early exits in key tournaments.
De Ligt’s insights into these dynamics, while sympathetic towards ten Hag, paint a reflective picture. “It is a shame that it had to end like that,” he expressed, echoing the disappointment of a chapter closed without the desired accomplishments.
Analysing Challenges
Under ten Hag, Manchester United faced numerous challenges, some beyond tactical nuances. The competitive landscape of the Premier League, coupled with the squad’s adaptation to ten Hag’s methodologies, posed significant hurdles. Additionally, the pressure to deliver in top-tier competitions piled on expectations for quick results.
Persistent defensive lapses and injuries to key players further compounded these trials, making it arduous for ten Hag to solidify a winning combination on the pitch. Despite these setbacks, the team exhibited glimpses of potential, suggesting that with time and stability, a breakthrough could have been achievable.
Looking Ahead
As Manchester United embarks on a new chapter post-ten Hag, reflections such as de Ligt’s serve as poignant reminders of the volatile nature of football management. While results may not have aligned with initial ambitions, the experience garnered by players and staff alike remains invaluable.
For ten Hag, the future holds opportunities for reinvention and possibly, new challenges within Europe’s top leagues. Meanwhile, players like de Ligt continue to carry the lessons learned, fuelling their drive for success at their current clubs, like Bayern Munich.
The narrative of ten Hag at Manchester United might not have culminated in triumph, but the relationships forged and lessons learned add depth to the ever-evolving story of modern football.
