Erik ten Hag is staying in charge at Old Trafford next season (Picture: Getty Images)
Erik ten Hag has spoken out about his plans for Manchester United’s pre-season schedule, after it was reported that he will be staying on as manager for next season.
The Dutchman’s future appeared to be hanging in the balance as last season came to an end, with the FA Cup triumph over Manchester City at Wembley the standout highlight of a nightmare campaign.
The Red Devils finished eighth in the top flight, their worse ever Premier League campaign, while they crashed out of the Champions League early, finishing bottom of a group that included FC Copenhagen and Galatasaray.
However, due to a lack of quality candidates elsewhere and the feel-good finish to the season with the FA Cup win, Ten Hag will remain in charge and is now planning for the pre-season friendlies to come.
United’s first friendly is against Rosenborg in Norway but as comes on 15 July, the day after the Euro 2024, not every member of the first team squad will be available and Ten Hag intends to blood some youngsters who he believes are already ready to play in the senior side.
‘We have a strong first-team squad there with players that can present themselves to the fans,’ Ten Hag told Manchester United club media. ‘But especially to us. They have the levels to play in our team for next season.
‘There will be a mix, with experienced players together with some young players.
Erik ten Hag added the FA Cup to his CV along with the Carabao Cup on his CV (Picture: Getty Images)
‘[The squad will be] as strong as possible but, of course, the players who go far in the Copa America and the Euros will not be involved.
‘Pre-season is about preparing for the season and we have to make that our next step. It is one of the only times when you have the team together, and you can work in training on structures, the way of play, but also on certain standards around the team and that’s very important to take this period and use it effectively.
‘We will bring players like Kobbie, who was very unknown by that time, and now everyone knows him.
‘So if you want to have the first glimpse of players – maybe new players or young players who are coming up through the Academy, then this is your opportunity.’
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