Erik ten Hag wants nothing to do with the criticism of his tenure as Manchester United boss. According to the former Ajax and Twente coach, all the noise comes from the media and there is no unrest within the club.
These comments arrived in a press conference in the run-up to the league match against Brentford. Ten Hag’s role has come under continued scrutiny in recent weeks. However, despite a poor run of form that sees his side currently 14th in the Premier League table, Ten Hag remained defiant in the face of criticism.
“It only comes from the media. They make up stories, fairy tales, lies. Some journalists didn’t believe me, I did read the articles.
“Of course we are not happy with the position we are in. But we remain calm. We are on the same page within the club and it is very calm here internally. We stick to our plan and ultimately that will lead to success. Sometimes in top football you face challenges but I am sure we can make a success of it. Just like in previous seasons when we also won prizes.”
United have eight points after seven matches. The Red Devils earned a point in their last Premier League match, drawing 0-0 at Villa Park against Aston Villa. This extended their winless streak to three (W0 D2 L1). Amid that recent run, goals have been a real issue for the Old Trafford residents, with just the five league goals scored so far this term.
“We have to start scoring goals,” conceded the manager, “We have to improve to get into the box.”
Such was the criticism that the Dutchman has received under the microscope at United, Saturday’s visiting coach actually defended his opposite number earlier this week. Saying of Ten Hag, Brentford’s Thomas Frank said:
“It’s unbelievable what he’s going through. As a manager I can imagine how he feels in this situation. I think he’s getting too much criticism. He must be a good manager, because he’s won two trophies in two seasons. But I know how it works. When you win you’re fantastic, when you lose you’re worthless. The truth is somewhere in between.”
