Ruud Gullit says Erik ten Hag’s ability to implement his work philosophy and match tactics at Manchester United have seen him blossom in his tenure so far - something that has “surprised” the former Chelsea boss.
The Reds manager has already won his first piece of silverware in England having lifted the Carabao Cup at Wembley last month. And while the league title looks a bridge too far this year, United are in the latter stages of both the FA Cup and Europa League.
That is not to discount the positive trajectory of United’s league form though, with the club on track for a top four spot after finishing a record-worst seventh last season. The campaign got off to a wobbly start with defeats to Brighton and Brentford.
READ MORE: Erik ten Hag is close to achieving first United promise
A few pundits were worried about whether Ten Hag would be able to bridge the gulf between the quality of the Eredivisie and the Premier League on the back of the two results, but these concerns have since been thoroughly quashed.
However, what has surprised Gullit most is Ten Hag’s successful application of his own policies inside the crucible that is Old Trafford. “I’m surprised, we’re all surprised, with Erik ten Hag at Manchester United,” Gullit told A Bola via (Tribuna).
“The Dutch Eredivisie does not have the same levels of competitiveness as the Premier League, perhaps the most attractive championship in world football, but the truth is that he was able to impose a work philosophy and the playing formula he advocates.”
Gullit also believes that Cristiano Ronaldo’s exit helped Ten Hag in his quest to overhaul United. He argued that both player and coach have benefitted from their November split.
Gullit added: “Personally, I think that the very controversial episode with Cristiano Ronaldo ended up benefiting him. At that moment, with what he said and did, he won over the dressing room and the fans. The results confirm it.
“That’s what Cristiano decided. His time at Manchester United, after the run-ins with Erik ten Hag, ran out of steam. In the end, the situation turned out to benefit both of them. Cristiano is happy where he is, Erik ten Hag too, they both won.”
READ MORE:
