‘It’s very similar to what Fergie created!’: Sir Alex Ferguson’s former assistant Rene Meulensteen compares Erik ten Hag’s work with current Manchester United squad to that of legendary boss
- Erik ten Hag won his silver medal with Manchester United on Sunday
- The Dutchman was welcomed by the legendary former boss in the tunnel after
- Rene Meulensteen compared the impact Erik ten Hag is having to that of Ferguson
Rene Meulensteen compared the impact Erik ten Hag is having on the current Manchester United squad to that of Sir Alex Ferguson.
Dutchman Meulensteen, who spent six years coaching Ferguson at United, five of them as head coach, praised the impact Ten Hag had and compared some of his methods to the Scot’s.
Speaking with TalkSport a day after United’s triumph over Newcastle in the League Cup final at Wembley on Sunday, Meulensteen said Ten Hag’s impact on United was “very similar to what Sir Alex has created”.
“It’s very similar to what Sir Alex Ferguson created,” he said. ‘At least the time I was there, it was all about hard work but at the same time, you know, enjoying what you’re doing – enjoying what you’re doing in training.
‘I always remember Sir Alex Ferguson saying that everything you do in training, Rene, will manifest itself in the game – good and bad.
Rene Meulensteen compared Erik ten Hag’s methods to Sir Alex Ferguson after their Carabao Cup triumph
The Dutchman spent six years working with Ferguson as Manchester United’s head coach.
‘So we make sure we all put the right deals in there and I’m sure Erik, with his team, does exactly the same.’
Muelensteen has changed quite a bit since leaving United a decade ago. His work took him to Fulham, where he was manager during 2013-14, and then to Maccabi Haifa
Ten Hag himself has spoken of his joy at having spent time with the legendary former United manager, who resigned from his role 10 years ago in May 2013.
The two enjoyed dinner together, which was captured by a customer inside the restaurant.
Ten Hag wrote an open letter to United fans saying he was “proud” of his team and players, who are back on the road after Sunday’s triumph as they chase three more trophies this season.
“I wanted to take the time to speak with you directly this morning,” wrote Ten Hag. “When I arrived at the club, we talked about the challenge and importance of bringing this group of players together with our incredible supporters,” he wrote. ‘Trust me, this squadron knows exactly how important you are. The bond between the fans and the team is there for all to see and what we experienced together yesterday will only strengthen that bond even further.
‘The atmosphere you generated at Wembley was incredible. From the first minute to the last you were with us, pushing the team forward, supporting and encouraging them to go over the line to bring the trophy back to Manchester.
‘For those who couldn’t be there, we feel your support before, during and after the game. Know that each of you will always do your part to make this team successful.
Erik ten Hag won his first trophy as United manager when they beat Newcastle on Sunday
‘I am proud of my players and staff for their preparation and performance. Yesterday, we saw the necessary desire, spirit and determination that we must demand from everyone who represents Manchester United.
‘We set high standards every day. At Wembley we fulfilled these demands and we got our first trophy together.
‘We know the importance of trophies throughout the history of this great club. We’re very happy to bring the trophy back to Old Trafford, but we’re not satisfied and we’re not going to stop there.
‘Together, we experienced what it means to win together for Manchester United. It really is magnificent and will only make each of us more eager for more success.’
