So far, Eric ten Haag has made a good impression on Manchester United.
The debut press conference on Monday gave fans and the media the first real idea of the Dutchman’s way of thinking. He has already held several meetings with United officials in London ahead of the expected summer revision.
Ten Haag watched his new club lose 1-0 to Crystal Palace on Sunday. The 52-year-old is leaving his players to rest before revealing his intentions for them after their break – although he seems to have already allowed Aaron One-Bissaka and Brandon Williams to leave.
READ MORE: The great study of Manchester United: We want your thoughts on transfers, Glazers, Ten Hague and next season
This is a move he praised, while supporters are also optimistic about the arrival of former Ajax assistant Mitchell van der Haag and former Old Trafford number 2 Steve McLaren, who was Sir Alex Ferguson’s right-hand man between 1999 and 2001.
Speaking at his first press conference, Ten Hag reiterated that he has “confidence in the project” and “good people around” the club. IN Manchester evening news understands that four coaches will be transferred from Old Trafford – including Mike Phelan.
This may be his first mistake. Whether it’s Phelan’s choice or the club’s decision, Ten Hag can do much worse than keep it, even if it’s only for another 12 months.
Phelan spent 20 years at United over many periods and was part of many of the club’s successes in the 2000s under Sir Alex Ferguson. His experience could be vital as the club entered a new era.
Former defender Rio Ferdinand said McLaren’s appointment was a good move because of his winning know-how. Phelan also falls into this category.
Ten Hag must be careful not to throw the baby out with the bath water while continuing to shake it internally. Phelan knows what it takes to win silverware; three Premier League titles, two League Cups and a World Club Championship should not be overlooked.
However, it should be noted that he failed to stop the decay of Old Trafford after returning under the leadership of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in 2018, after visiting Norwich, Hull and the Central Coast Mariners of Australia. But the cracks began to appear after he left in 2013, so blaming him for the decline that followed would be unfair.
Phelan could be a valuable member of the backstage staff during the settlement of Ten Hague. The Dutchman knows that he must have informed, reliable and successful voices around him if he wants to rebuild United to their former heights.
After training as Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo – among many other characters – Phelan’s experience is undeniable. Allowing him to leave without trying to use his experience can be a huge mistake.
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