Erik ten Hag addressed why Manchester United has been bringing in players with whom he has previously worked at Ajax. He clarified that while these signings might appear related to his past associations, he did not specifically request these players.
The latest additions to Manchester United include Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui, who joined from Bayern Munich. They follow earlier signings like Lisandro Martínez, Antony, and André Onana, all of whom had experience under Ten Hag at Ajax.
Ten Hag emphasized that the decision to sign players is not solely based on his preference. It involves multiple stakeholders within the club, including the scouting and recruitment teams, technical director, and sporting director. This collaborative approach ensures that decisions align with broader club strategies and needs.
The manager pointed out that any signing must fit within the club’s financial framework and strategic requirements. It’s not just about bringing in familiar faces but ensuring that the players meet the club’s overall needs and budget constraints.
Ten Hag acknowledged that while familiarity with his coaching style can be beneficial, the overall decision to recruit players involves a thorough evaluation of how they fit into the team’s dynamics and long-term plans.
In summary, Erik ten Hag’s explanation underscores the collaborative nature of transfer decisions at Manchester United and highlights that while previous associations with players can be advantageous, they are only one aspect of the recruitment process.