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Former Netherlands international Marco van Basten has urged Manchester United to give Erik ten Hag time to turn things around at Old Trafford, following a turbulent season.
Ten Hag, who had a stellar first season with United, faced calls for his sacking after a disappointing campaign that saw the team finish eighth in the Premier League and exit the Champions League early.
However, a surprise FA Cup victory over Manchester City has bolstered his position, especially among fans.
According to reports, the United hierarchy is currently divided on whether to retain Ten Hag.
Van Basten believes the Dutchman should be given more time, citing his track record of building successful teams at Ajax, FC Utrecht.
“It was not a good match, but it is great that he managed to win against City with such a limited team,” Van Basten said.
He highlighted Ten Hag’s achievement of securing European football for United next season through the FA Cup win, despite the challenges.
Van Basten acknowledged that Ten Hag had made mistakes, particularly in the transfer market, but emphasized his capability to elevate the team’s performance.
“He is someone who can build, who can make a team stronger,” Van Basten noted, adding that Ten Hag had taken on too many responsibilities, which ideally should be managed by a technical director.
Van Basten also pointed out the impact of injuries on United’s season, suggesting that this factor should be considered in any evaluation of Ten Hag’s performance.
“I do think he is capable of taking Manchester to a higher level. And that takes time,” he said.
With the club’s leadership set to make a final decision on Ten Hag’s future this week, Van Basten’s comments provide a strong argument for patience and support for the Dutch coach.
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