Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has reportedly been left ‘pleased’ with how his new squad has taken on board his new methods and emerged with a positive first impression.
The Dutchman was confirmed as the Red Devils’ head coach in April as he succeeded Ralf Rangnick at the helm at Old Trafford. He ended his Ajax contract early to get a head-start on the sheer amount of work required at Old Trafford.
Ten Hag has also had the opportunity to meet a select few of his squad this week with those who were not on international duty throughout the summer returning to the club’s Carrington training base earlier this week. He has attempted to stamp his authority and footballing philosophy on the squad and the early signs look to be positive.
According to Sky Sports, Ten Hag is understood to be ‘pleased’ with how the players at his disposal have embraced and welcomed his ideas and demands. These have included asking players to arrive at an earlier time of 9am - previously only applicable for youth players.
The former Ajax man is also said to have been communicating directly with the squad currently in training, something that has been appreciated.
An unnamed senior player described Ten Hag to Sky Sports as "intense" and added: "not just on the body but the mind. He wants you to think, think, think".
But Ten Hag’s positive and enthusiastic attitude towards training has been noted to have been a huge benefit - a far cry from the downbeat outlook engulfing the squad during the final days of Rangnick’s spell at Old Trafford.
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Of course, it remains to be seen whether that positive outlook remains as more senior members of the squad return to training. Established first-teamers Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire - among others - will be back at Carrington next week and will have their first experiences alongside Ten Hag.
Despite that, there are promising signs that they could be set to follow the lead of those who have already returned. Number one goalkeeper David de Gea has also reportedly commented on Ten Hag’s early days by stating that he has brought “clear ideas” to the table.
The hierarchy at Old Trafford will certainly be hoping that the early compliments of the Dutchman’s early days are a sign of things to come with Ten Hag aiming to improve the Red Devils’ fortunes following a hugely underwhelming season last time out.
United ended up finishing sixth under Rangnick and were somewhat fortunate to avoid dropping into the Europa Conference League on the final day of the campaign following a defeat to Crystal Palace.
The new Man Utd boss will also be keen to add new faces to his current squad. The Red Devils are seemingly closing in on a deal for Feyenoord defender Tyrell Malacia, whilst they have also agreed a fee with Barcelona for midfielder Frenkie de Jong.
