New Delhi: Erik ten Hag has hit back at the media, accusing them of making up “fairytales and lies” about his future at Manchester United. With United sitting 14th in the Premier League and without a win in five matches, pressure has been mounting on the Dutchman, especially after a heavy 3-0 loss to Tottenham at Old Trafford.
The media frenzy only grew during the international break, with reports suggesting that Ten Hag could be sacked. However, the 54-year-old has made it clear that those claims are false. “The noise is only coming from some of you,” Ten Hag told reporters. “You’re creating stories and fairytales. But internally, it is quiet. We are all on one page at the club.”
Many felt that a recent meeting involving co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and members of the Glazer family might have sealed Ten Hag’s fate. But the former Ajax boss insists that he still has the board’s full support. “I said before the break that we’re on the same page, but journalists didn’t believe me,” he said, pointing out how the reports have been misrepresenting the reality at the club.
🗣️ Erik ten Hag on his future. “The noise is only coming from some of you in the media, creating stories and fairy tales, and bringing lies. Journalists didn’t believe me. I saw the reports. Of course, we are unhappy with the position where we are. Ultimately, internally it is… pic.twitter.com/XRdSFlfoFY
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) October 18, 2024
Despite the external noise, Ten Hag remains calm and focused on turning things around. He acknowledges that the current standings are far from acceptable but is convinced that success will come. “Of course, we’re unhappy with our position,” he admitted. “But we stay composed and stick to the plan. We are very convinced it will be a success.”
With a crucial match against Brentford approaching, Ten Hag knows the importance of getting results. Brentford manager Thomas Frank, who has been linked to the United job, also weighed in on the scrutiny, suggesting the pressure on Ten Hag is “too much.”
But for Ten Hag, the focus remains on the job at hand. “We have to climb a mountain, but that’s top football,” he said. United’s manager is determined to turn things around and silence the doubters.
