When Steve McClaren, former assistant manager at Manchester United, sat down to discuss his time under Erik ten Hag’s leadership, he offered a fascinating look into life at Old Trafford.
While Ten Hag has been leading the Red Devils since the summer of 2022, it hasn’t been a smooth journey, with moments of both success and struggle.
McClaren, who was by his side for the first two years, shared a behind-the-scenes perspective.
A Rollercoaster Ride for Manchester United
Erik ten Hag’s tenure at Manchester United has been nothing short of a rollercoaster.
While trophies have come their way, the team has also faced significant challenges, both on the pitch and in the league.
McClaren, who departed for Jamaica in July, witnessed these highs and lows firsthand, overseeing the squad’s development and struggles.
When asked if Ten Hag is feeling the heat, particularly with United sitting 14th in the league and a crucial match against Aston Villa looming, McClaren chuckled.
But his response quickly turned serious as he reflected on the constant pressure at Old Trafford.
Managing Pressure at Manchester United
“Every day at Manchester United, you’re under pressure,” McClaren shared with Sky Sports, recalling his time alongside Ten Hag.
He explained how fans were already calling for Ten Hag’s dismissal just two games into the season after defeats to Brighton and Brentford.
But the team quickly bounced back with a stunning 3-0 win over Liverpool.
McClaren recounted another near-disastrous moment, a 4-0 loss to Crystal Palace that could have easily been 8-0.
He admitted thinking that might have been the end for Ten Hag. Yet, the team recovered, winning the next four games and eventually securing a cup victory.
Ten Hag’s Resilience and Process
What stood out to McClaren was Ten Hag’s unwavering commitment to the process, even in the face of adversity.
McClaren remembered the early days of the season when everything seemed to be going well, from the recruitment of talented players to the arrival of experienced coaches like Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake.
The positive atmosphere at the club was palpable, but as McClaren noted, “stumbles happen, especially at big clubs.”
However, McClaren emphasized that Ten Hag has proven his resilience time and again.
“Many times, we’d sit in the canteen at breakfast with a cup of tea, dealing with crisis after crisis, but somehow, we’d come out with a win at a vital time,” he reflected.
The Ronaldo Saga
One of the defining moments of Ten Hag’s time at Manchester United was his public fallout with Cristiano Ronaldo.
McClaren has previously voiced his support for Ten Hag’s approach during this difficult period.
After dropping the five-time Ballon d’Or winner to the bench several times, Ronaldo accused Ten Hag of betrayal, a move that divided fans and pundits alike.
Looking back, McClaren told The Telegraph that he stood by Ten Hag’s decision, stating, “He really handled it very well. I said at the time he was the right man to go in.”
What Lies Ahead for Ten Hag and United?
As Manchester United continues its current campaign, much remains uncertain.
With the team facing challenges in the league, McClaren’s insights into Ten Hag’s leadership provide a reminder of the pressures that come with managing a club of this stature.
But as McClaren made clear, Ten Hag has weathered many storms before—and could do so again.