Erik ten Hag has left fans feeling optimistic about him taking on the Man United job after a reporter questioned him about his rumoured English lessons.
The Dutch manager has become the heavy favourite to take on the managerial role at the Theatre of Dreams this summer. After years of success at Ajax, supporters believe that he’s the man to take the reigns at United and whip the club back into shape.
Ten Hag has enjoyed fantastic success in his homeland. He’s impressively guided Ajax to two Eredivise titles with a third likely on the way. Not to mention his fairy tale run in the 2018-19 Champions League, in which his side made it all the way to the semi-finals, defeating Real Madrid and Juventus on the journey.
But despite the 52-year-old’s mesmerising work at the Johan Cruyff Arena, working his magic at Old Trafford is an entirely different proposition. Since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure, the club has spiralled into the abyss. Even elite managers like Jose Mourinho and Louis Van Gall couldn’t get the club back on the right track.
However, there’s a sense of optimism among fans that there’s something different about Ten Hag. And if they weren’t already happy enough, this interview has sent their excitement through the roof.
Erik ten Hag adresses a massive rumour ahead of potential Man United job
Earlier this month, The Daily Mail reported that the manager had begun working on his English. The esteemed coach was asked about those rumours before his side’s last 16 Champions League second leg against Benfica.
The reporter first asked Ten Hag if he felt it was time to leave Ajax. He responded: “I don’t think it’s today the issue. I only focus on today’s game. I focus on that, and I don’t pay attention to other subjects. I’m only focused on Ajax-Benfica.”
Fans noticed that Ten Hag didn’t try to convince anyone that he was sticking around at Ajax. Next, he was asked about the rumours about him practicing English.
He told BT Sport: “No, that’s not true. We talk English, we talk English in the club because we have a lot of foreign players. In Holland, we’re well educated in English.”
Although Ten Hag adamantly denied the reports, his wry smile during the interview has given United fans all they need.
One supporter said: “It’s not his verbal responses. But it’s the smirk to both questions that make me think there is something more.”
Read: Man United fans make their feelings clear on Erik ten Hag as their new manager.
Ultimately Ajax joined United in crashing out of the competition. But ‘Red Devils’ fans are still highly upbeat about their chances of securing the Dutchman’s services. After years of heartbreak, they believe that the renowned coach is the right man for the job. We’ll watch this story’s developments closely.
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