January 01, (THEWILL) – Erik ten Hag, Manchester United manager, has taken charge of the club’s reserve team in an effort to create a clearer pathway for young players into the first team.
The 52-year-old, who has had a successful start at Old Trafford, believes that by taking charge of the reserve team, he can have more influence on the development of young, talented players and their progression to the first team.
The Dutchman previously implemented a similar system at his previous club, Ajax, where he took control of the reserve team. Ten Hag will still give the coaches some leverage, but will provide direction to ensure the reserve team performs well and players are ready to make the step up to the first team.
The manager made it clear in his own words: “At Ajax, the reserve team came under the responsibility of the manager. That was the only way I could have influence on the flow of young, talented players towards the first team.
“Of course, I still give the coaches the freedom to work, but I also give them direction, by saying for example ‘I want that player to start making minutes in that position.’ So the final responsibility lies with me about how the second team performs and the flow of players that goes from the reserve team to the first team.”
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
