Erik ten Hag has just completed his first week of training as Manchester United boss.
He’s been able to see most of his players up close in the flesh for the first time, so will already have some first impressions. Sessions largely focused on passing, and moving the ball swiftly - something that could become a commonplace.
Youngsters joined up with the first team and were able to pit their talents against senior players, bookmarking the level they must aspire to. From the pictures shared by United, aside from the goalkeepers, the training was focused on group work.
READ MORE: What United players think about Erik ten Hag
Ten Hag revealed himself to be an interactive coach, shouting instructions and encouragement through each session, rather than being merely an observer. His coaching staff were just as vocal and concentrated.
A lot of the in-house media focus was directed at Jadon Sancho and Donny van de Beek - two players who are expected to shine under the new boss. But there are other moments that United fans may be interested to note down.
McClaren and Rashford
It’s a big season for Marcus Rashford after a disappointing 2021/22 campaign, and his efforts in training showed he’s getting off on the right footing. He was seen talking to returning assistant manager Steve McClaren on day one.
There were quiet fears that there may be some tension between the pair after McClaren previously stated that he “ hated” Rashford’s attitude in January following their FA Cup win over Aston Villa. However, any grumblings have been seemingly laid to rest, with both men seen amicably chatting away to each other when walking out from the Carrington changing rooms.
De Gea ball work
Nowadays, goalkeepers tend to join in with outfield players during possession-based activities and it is no different at United. But the glimpse of footwork included in David de Gea’s individual training could be telling.
While fellow goalkeepers were seen catching two balls in a row in between the sticks, De Gea was required to lay off a grounded ball before holding onto a shot. This small insight could again indicate Ten Hag’s preference for floor work.
Charlie Wellens sticks his foot in
Right-back Charlie Wellens may not yet have earned his senior debut, but he showed his capabilities in one phase of training. The teenager dispossessed starlet Alejandro Garnacho during a short training match, before distributing the ball forward.
That alone wiill not be enough to earn him first team action, but it was a promising bit of play from the youngster. He managed to bag eight goals and 11 assists for the under-23s last season.
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