Erik ten Hag, in his first major interview since leaving Manchester United in October 2024, has issued a strong warning to his successor, Rúben Amorim, about the challenges posed by certain individuals within the squad. The Dutchman, who managed United for over two seasons, reflected on the internal struggles that hindered his ability to succeed at the club. He pointed to the influence of three specific players—whom he chose not to name—who, in his view, disrupted team harmony and ultimately played a role in his downfall.
Ten Hag expressed his frustration over the obstacles he faced while trying to implement his tactical philosophy. He revealed that despite his best efforts to shape United into a title-contending side, the actions and attitudes of a few players made it nearly impossible to achieve his goals. According to him, had he been able to move these individuals on, the team might have performed at a much higher level. His comments suggest that their resistance to his methods created a difficult atmosphere within the squad, preventing the team from fully buying into his vision.
In a direct message to Amorim, Ten Hag advised his successor to act quickly in dealing with disruptive elements before they further destabilize the squad. He warned that if these internal issues are not addressed, Manchester United’s struggles will persist. His remarks emphasize his belief that a strong mentality and squad discipline are crucial for success at an elite club, especially one with United’s stature and expectations.
Beyond his personal experiences at United, Ten Hag also touched on a broader issue within modern football, highlighting the difficulties managers face when dealing with today’s generation of players. He pointed out that many modern footballers struggle to accept criticism, a stark contrast to past generations who, in his opinion, had a tougher mindset.
According to him, football used to allow for more direct and demanding coaching without players reacting negatively. This shift in mentality, he implied, has made it increasingly difficult for managers to enforce discipline and maintain authority over their squads.
Since Amorim’s appointment in November 2024, Manchester United has continued to face serious challenges. The team currently sits in 15th place in the Premier League, far below expectations. Amorim has admitted that poor performances from certain players have contributed to the club’s financial struggles, which have even resulted in job losses within the organization.
With the summer transfer window approaching, speculation is growing that a major squad overhaul is imminent. Many fans and pundits are calling for the removal of players seen as obstacles to the club’s progress.
Ten Hag’s tenure at United was filled with both achievements and setbacks. While he managed to win the League Cup and FA Cup, his time at Old Trafford was also marked by conflicts with high-profile players, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Jadon Sancho, and Raphael Varane. These disputes not only impacted performances on the pitch but also created a fractured dressing room. Ultimately, his departure signified the end of an era that, despite some successes, will be remembered just as much for its internal turmoil as for its silverware.
His latest comments serve as both a warning and a lesson for Amorim and any future Manchester United manager. They highlight the importance of asserting authority, managing player personalities effectively, and ensuring that every squad member aligns with the club’s vision. As United fights to regain its status among football’s elite, how the current leadership navigates these internal challenges could determine the club’s trajectory for years to come.
