Manchester United

Manchester United

Premier League • England

‘Big step backwards’ – Erik Ten Hag told to swerve Man Utd move for divisive old boy

Erik Ten Hag, Ajax manager, speaking at a press conference after Eredivisie game v Sparta Rotterdam

Erik Ten Hag has been told he will be making a huge mistake by bringing in Steve McClaren as his Manchester United number two.

United are currently closing in on one of the most important appointments of their history. The Dutchman is the clear favourite to take charge at Old Trafford from interim boss Ralf Rangnick with what appears a difficult brief. Indeed, having fallen some way behind Liverpool and Manchester City, Ten Hag will be charged with closing that gap and ultimately overhauling them.

Ten Hag will become the fifth permanent appointment United have made since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013.

As such, his appointment is likely to be rubberstamped in the coming weeks. And planning for a bright new era at Old Trafford is seemingly already underway.

Of course, plenty is being written and said about United’s squad. Decisions must be made over a number of big-name stars, with Jamie Carragher advising the Dutchman to dispense with the services of two major names.

However, Ten Hag’s first decision is likely to come behind the scenes with his choice as his No 2. The likes of Ruud van Nistelrooy and Robin van Persie – two former United strikers – have been touted as options.

That said, the door on Van Nistelrooy recently closed, while Van Persie has also seemingly turned his back on a return.

The likes of Rene Meulensteen and Peter Bosz are also reportedly under consideration.

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Erik Ten Hag set to be announced as Manchester United manager

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However, it is McClaren who appears to be top of Ten Hag’s wishlist; a coach the Dutchman knows well.

Indeed, the two men worked together previously at FC Twente between 2008 and 2010.

Furthermore, given McClaren has a history with United, coaching the club under Ferguson back in 1999 to 2001.

Pundit advises Ten Hag against Steve McClaren move

However, pundit Paul Robinson, who played under McClaren for England, claims the move would be a major mistake.

Speaking to Football Insider, Robinson says the move would be a big step backwards at Manchester United.

“I think that would be just bringing in the Manchester United old guard again,” Robinson said.

“We’ve already had that with Mike Phelan. I just don’t see it as a good fit.

“The game has changed and the game has moved on.

“Steve McClaren was a fantastic coach and an organiser, but it just seems like a massive step backwards.

“Football has evolved and changed from when he was last in the game. I don’t think Man United holding on to the past is going to help them.

“He had a fantastic time at the club, but they need a complete clear-out and they need something new.”