Erik ten Hag insists he has put Manchester United’s review over his future as manager in the past as he prepares for his third season at Old Trafford.
United’s co-owner Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS team underwent an extensive review of football operations this summer, which involved speaking to new managerial candidates.
Ten Hag’s future was thought to be in serious doubt after a disappointing eigth-placed finish, albeit they end the season by triumphing in the FA Cup final against Manchester City.
Eventually though, Red Devils chiefs eventually opted to remain with the Dutchman in charge, subsequently handing him a new contract.
Reflecting on the period of uncertainty over his future, Ten Hag told BBC Sport: “It feels like it is years ago. I left it behind and I am looking forward. I know why I am here. I am here to win. I am here for the project and to win trophies. We want to move forward.”
Asked if he was waiting for the dreaded call, he added: “No, because I knew this project and we are going in the right direction. We had won two trophies and I was preparing the season.
“That is what I did in this period. And of course I took a break. I needed it. It was a tough season.
“I was focussed on the reality. The reality was we had a tough season and I had to plan the squad. I had to prepare pre-season and the season and the decision making – and we are here.”
United have signed two players this summer in the form of Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee joining from Bologna and French defender Leny Yoro swapping Lille for the Theatre of Dreams.
🚨 The boss has discussed the fitness of…
🇫🇷 @Leny_Yoro
🇧🇷 @Antony00
🏴 @MarcusRashford
🇩🇰 Rasmus Hojlund#MUFC || #MUTOUR24— Manchester United (@ManUtd) August 2, 2024
Disappointingly, Yoro has been ruled out for three months with striker Rasmus Hojlund also set to miss six weeks.
Asked if the injuries will see United sign more players, Ten Hag said: “That is the plan. We want to make improvements in the squad and we want a squad as good as possible, although that is the aim of every club.
“It is important when you want to be at the top level, in a season like this, which will be a season of ‘survival of the fittest’ you need squad depth.”
