Manchester United

Manchester United

Premier League • England

Liverpool hero backs Man Utd for manager who needs ‘top side’ to prove his distinct tactics

Mauricio Pochettino and Erik Ten Hag

Erik ten Hag would prove a great manager option for Manchester United in their ongoing search, according to former Liverpool star Dirk Kuyt.

United have made Ajax boss Ten Hag a firm candidate alongside Paris Saint-Germain’s Mauricio Pochettino for their soon-to-be vacant post. What’s more, they have held a first formal interview with the Dutchman.

Concerns reportedly emerged from both sides after those talks.

Man Utd supposedly fear that Ten Hag is not ready to take the leap to Old Trafford. Not only would he be managing in a major European league for the first time, but taking charge of a Premier League club facing a crucial crossroads.

Ten Hag, meanwhile, reportedly has concerns about the structure and workings at the top of United compared to Ajax.

According to the manager’s fellow Dutchman Kuyt, though, Ten Hag would fit in well with a “top side” like Man Utd.

“Ten Hag is a great, experienced coach,” the ex-midfielder told Goal. “He’s done his apprenticeship, if you like, with Bayern Munich’s second team, then Utrecht and now at Ajax.

“He is a great manager who has improved himself so much, on and off the pitch.

Erik ten Hag and Manchester United hold talks about manager position

Erik ten Hag and Manchester United hold talks about manager position

Ajax manager Erik ten Hag has met with Manchester United and had positive talks about becoming the new Man United manager

“I know some people were doubting his level of speaking English, his performance in front of the camera, but you see him growing every week as a manager, and I think he can do a great job at any top side in Europe.

“His tactics, his way of thinking about football, is very interesting, and it would be great if he was to get an opportunity at a top side.”

Ten Hag has risen to prominence during his spell at Ajax, taking the team to the Champions League semi-finals.

Man Utd have specific Ten Hag admiration

Man Utd manager target Erik Ten Hag

And amid the reported concerns from Man Utd about Ajax, there is admiration for the 52-year-old’s work.

Indeed, United feel impressed as to how he has kept the Eredivisie giants going, despite Ajax selling their best players.

Matthijs de Ligt, Donny van de Beek, Hakim Ziyech and Frenkie de Jong all rose to stardom there.

They have since moved to different destinations in Europe, but Ten Hag has rebuilt.

He signed former West Ham striker Sebastian Haller in January last year and he scored 11 Champions League goals in eight games this season. Haller has also netted 20 goals in 24 Eredivisie games this term.