Manchester United's Unity Under Erik Ten Hag Hailed By Wes Brown
Manchester United's commitment to Erik ten Hag is expected to foster unity within the team, according to Wes Brown. The former defender urged the Red Devils to improve in the upcoming season. Ten Hag was reportedly close to leaving Old Trafford after leading United to an eighth-place finish last season, their lowest in Premier League history.
The Dutch manager retained his job by winning the FA Cup final against Manchester City, securing his second trophy in two seasons and earning a spot in the Europa League. Brown believes that the club's support for Ten Hag will boost squad morale, who must perform better when the 2024-25 season begins.
"He's done well; we obviously won the cup last season against Man City," said Brown, speaking to Stats Perform at the Home of Adidas football in Berlin. "Expectations are always high for any manager at Manchester United. But since we were let down a little bit in the league last year, we want to be in the Champions League and finish as high as we can. That is a priority."
Brown noted that new signings usually happen after major tournaments, so it's uncertain what changes will occur. He emphasised that he likes Ten Hag and believes players have sometimes underperformed. However, he sees growing togetherness within the team and thinks Ten Hag can now focus on his job with clarity about his future.
Thomas Tuchel, Mauricio Pochettino, and Thomas Frank were all linked to the United job amid speculation about Ten Hag's future. Brown, who played 232 times for United after coming through their academy, says ending those rumours should positively impact Ten Hag's players.
Impact of Managerial Stability
Asked if uncertainty around Ten Hag's future would impact the squad, Brown responded: "I think it does. I've probably been in the same situation at other clubs. It definitely helps going forward; if anything, you don't think about it—it's all done now."
"It definitely helps in coming together as a team. We're all in it together and can now move forward for the next few years to make the club better again," added Brown.
Defensive Reinforcements Needed
Ten Hag expects additions to a squad plagued by injuries last term, especially in defence. Raphael Varane has left the club, while Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire struggled with injuries last campaign. United are looking for centre-back options, with Bayern Munich's Matthjis de Ligt and Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite both linked as potential additions.
Brown insists that position must be a priority for United in the transfer window. "Branthwaite had a good season," Brown added. "It's been difficult for Everton, but his personal performances have been highly rated. De Ligt is a great player."
"Depending on what happens at Munich, you never know," continued Brown. "But I think a priority is a defender coming in alongside Martinez and if we could get one of them, I'd be very happy as a fan."
Manchester United have won 54% of their league games under Erik ten Hag (41/76), with only Alex Ferguson having a higher win percentage (65%) during his tenure at Old Trafford.
54% - Manchester United have won 54% of their league games under Erik ten Hag (41/76), with only Alex Ferguson (65%) having a higher win percentage in charge of the Red Devils in the Premier League.Entrusted.pic.twitter.com/Z8ZuyFCuFb
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) June 12, 2024
This managerial stability is expected to help Manchester United build on their recent successes and aim higher next season.
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