Erik ten Hag fires at Man United board over support and signings

Erik ten Hag has launched into the Manchester United board, accusing them of not backing him as promised and of ignoring his wishes in the transfer market. The Dutch coach claims the club “promised me loyalty, promised me backing, promised communication”, but adds that “the promises, they didn’t keep”.

On recruitment, Ten Hag says Frenkie de Jong was his first midfield choice, though the player turned down a move. He then pushed for Declan Rice, but admits they “could have done more to test” because West Ham weren’t willing to sell.

His key targets

For a centre-forward, Ten Hag says that in summer 2023 he asked for only one player: “I want only one player, and you know who.” That name was Harry Kane, and Ten Hag insists he was “told no”.

He also argues that United signed “five, six players” who were young and high potential, but weren’t “finished products” and need guidance from established profiles like Kane, Rice and Bruno. Speaking to The Athletic, Ten Hag says United need “outstanding players” to be successful.