Erik ten Hag said the pressure on his side included the strong media presence of many former Manchester United players while he was in charge at Old Trafford. He said criticism from former players in the media sometimes affected some of his players, but he did not want to use that as an excuse.
Comparison with Bayern Munich and Ajax
Ten Hag told the Athletic: "It’s no different than Bayern Munich or Ajax; they do the same. But they are history, and they do not always know what’s going on. Football evolves. For United, it’s clear: they had great contributions, they achieved massive results, trophies for the club and for themselves, so I respect them."
Relationship with Neville and Ferdinand
Ten Hag told the Athletic: "I have to say, I had a very good relationship with them all, with Gary Neville, Rio Ferdinand. I did nice interviews with them both, so it didn’t hurt me. Of course, they have podcasts, they have their models. Sometimes it’s difficult for players. Some of them get affected by it, get annoyed by it."
Call for more support
Ten Hag told the Athletic: "They achieved massive successes. But also, they can help the club more, help the players more. There should be two ways that they support it. But I think always the thing you most love, you most criticise."