Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag recently addressed comparisons between the current team and past squads, particularly the 2004/05 team. Ten Hag emphasized the unfairness of such comparisons, noting that even the team from nearly two decades ago was in a phase of building and development. “It’s unfair to compare this Man United team with the ones of the past. But even Man United team of 2004/05 they didn’t play that great football, they were building,” said Ten Hag.
Building Takes Time
The Dutch manager highlighted the necessity of time for team development, suggesting that even former players might overlook the duration it took for them to progress. “It takes time. Even players who were in that team forget they needed time to progress,” Ten Hag remarked.
This statement comes amidst a series of comments from Ten Hag regarding the current state and future expectations of Manchester United. Recently, he ruled out title hopes for the next season, indicating a realistic approach towards the team’s development timeline. Furthermore, Ten Hag has shown support for key players like Marcus Rashford, praising his scoring abilities and defending him against criticism.
Support from Fans
In addition to discussing team development, Ten Hag has also commended Manchester United fans for their steadfast support, acknowledging their role in the club’s ongoing journey. This engagement with fans and focus on player development underscores Ten Hag’s comprehensive approach to rebuilding Manchester United, aligning with his views on the necessity of patience and time for achieving success.