- Erik ten Hag emphasizes the importance of unity among players and staff as the new season approaches
- The Dutch manager was seen engaging with the club’s newly established leadership group
- Tom Heaton believes that England fans will regret booing Gareth Southgate during Euro 2024
Manchester United’s choice to retain Erik ten Hag as manager hinges on the Dutchman’s ability to foster a strong rapport with the club’s new leadership team.
While in California for training sessions, Ten Hag sought to address any remaining doubts about conversations held between Ineos sporting director Sir Dave Brailsford and the club’s new technical director Jason Wilcox during the prior season regarding his position.
‘We’re entering a new season,’ Ten Hag expressed, reflecting on his team’s recent match against Arsenal. ‘I can’t do this alone. Players, staff, and leaders: we need a fresh approach.’
It was notable to see Ten Hag engaged in a 15-minute discussion with Brailsford, Wilcox, and United’s new sporting director Dan Ashworth following training at UCLA on Friday evening. The effectiveness of this new structure will be pivotal for the club’s future.
Kobbie Mainoo and United’s £36.5 million acquisition, Joshua Zirkzee, have been enjoying a holiday in Los Angeles despite not being part of the club’s tour.
Erik ten Hag emphasizes the need for unity among players and staff ahead of the new season
The Dutch manager was seen in an in-depth discussion with the club’s new leadership group
Players who reached the semi-finals or later in the Euros or Copa America are currently enjoying some time off.
Ten Hag granted his players Thursday afternoon free, leading some of the British contingent, including Harry Maguire, Scott McTominay, Jonny Evans, and Tom Heaton, to take a quick shopping trip to Rodeo Drive, just a mile and a half from their hotel.
Heaton, who participated in the Euros, believes that England fans might regret how they treated Gareth Southgate during the tournament.
As part of the England squad in a coaching capacity, Heaton gained insight into Southgate’s operations and the atmosphere in the camp.
Some fans showed discontent towards Southgate, culminating in cups of beer being thrown at him after the goalless draw against Slovenia in the final group match.
This negativity surrounding England’s performance is believed to have influenced Southgate’s decision to step down after eight years in charge.
When asked if those fans might later regret their actions, Heaton replied: ‘I do. I think he has transformed the culture and expectations around English football. It’s uncommon to witness an entire squad eager to win for the manager. He’s a leader worth following.
Tom Heaton reflects on the fans booing Gareth Southgate during Euro 2024
‘I was there at the start of his era when the transition was made from Big Sam (Allardyce) to Southgate, and ever since, the environment around the England team has felt predominantly positive. However, the first game (against Serbia at the Euros) had a different atmosphere; you could sense a shift in the narrative.
‘Being booed almost every half during the tournament until the semi-final was challenging. That pressure likely weighed on him—especially for someone who was striving to create optimism and give everything to succeed.
‘I was a bit surprised by Southgate’s decision to resign, but reflecting on it made me understand his perspective. Gareth is his own person with his own aspirations.’
