Erik ten Hag has already made clear his view on Manchester United’s treatment of Donny van de Beek in an indication of how the two Dutchman may work together.
The club have held talks with the Ajax boss this week over potentially becoming the next permanent manager, and is said to be the leading candidate. Ten Hag had dealings with United 18 months ago when he allowed Van de Beek to move to Old Trafford in return for £35million.
The Netherlands international’s struggles at United have been well-documented and, as a consequence of limited game time, is now on loan at relegation-threatened Everton. Van de Beek has 50 appearances for United, but has started only 19 times.
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This shunning of Van de Beek by then-boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was tough for Ten Hag to watch, he said. The 24-year-old had played an integral part of Ajax’s run to the Champions League semi-final in 2019, memorably scoring a first-leg winner over Tottenham.
Van de Beek’s demise at United came as a surprise, not least to his former manager. Speaking back in December to de Volkskrant, ten Hag said: “Donny, I find that hard. (It’s a) mortal sin.
“If you haven’t had a chance yet, then development will also stall. Every now and then you encourage them.” His comments show that the 52-year-old is not afraid to speak his mind, even if it is at risk of upsetting the apple cart.
The quotes also reveal his connection to young players he nurtures, which could be good news for the likes of Jadon Sancho, Anthony Elanga and Aaron Wan-Bissaka. It may also particularly come as a boost for Marcus Rashford, with Ten Hag’s comments offering an insight into his methodology of motivating those whose career progression is stalling.
Rashford has had an underwhelming season, with many fans concerned by his on-pitch attitude. Ten Hag has a track record of getting the best out of a player, with ex-West Ham forward Sebastian Heller being a case in point with his 33 goals for Ajax this season.
An arm around the shoulder, along with some harsh words of reality, could be the kickstart many of United’s players need.
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