At 32, Eric Ramsay finds himself coaching at Minnesota United, a role that places him younger than some of his players.
Recently, he wrapped up a match at Allianz Field, lifting his two-and-a-half-year-old son, Jac, over the perimeter fence, while balancing his one-year-old daughter, Lili, in the other arm.
They made their way to the goal, where the club’s passionate supporters cheered them on as they kicked a ball over the line—a tradition for the team after home victories.
Saturday night’s win against San Jose Earthquakes was particularly sweet, ending a grueling nine-game winless streak and restoring some much-needed joy to the club.
Ramsay’s journey to Minnesota United has been anything but conventional.
Before joining the team, he was part of Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff at Manchester United.
Ramsay acknowledges the significant impact working with Ten Hag had on him. “I learned a lot from Erik,” Ramsay shares.
“His strength and conviction were impressive, especially dealing with the pressures at Manchester United.
It was invaluable to see how he managed challenges.”
Despite being offered two positions in the Championship, Ramsay chose to move to MLS, believing it was the right time for a new challenge.
“I felt this opportunity was too good to pass up,” he explains.
“Even after only five months, I feel like I’ve grown significantly. It’s been everything I hoped for and more.”
Taking over from Adrian Heath, the former Minnesota coach, Ramsay is considerably younger than his predecessor.
At 32, he’s also younger than some of the players on his roster, like Teemu Pukki.
Pukki finds Ramsay’s age amusing but admits, “He’s experienced a lot in football.
Even though it’s his first managerial role, we all respect his background and knowledge.”
For Ramsay, age has never been an issue.
“It’s more of a talking point for others than for me,” he says.
“I’ve been in coaching roles since I was in my early 20s, and age has never been a barrier if you can connect with the players and help them improve.”
Ramsay’s transition to Minnesota has not been without its challenges.
Despite the difficulties, he has remained steadfast. “This period has really tested me,” he admits.
“It’s easy to be a coach when everything is going well. The true test is how you handle the tough times.
This experience has been a crucial part of my development.”
Ramsay values staying grounded, a philosophy he shares with Ten Hag.
“I try not to get too high or too low,” he says. “Handling both success and setbacks with a level head is crucial.
This period has shown me the importance of maintaining perspective.”
Embracing a New Culture
Life in Minnesota has been an adventure for Ramsay and his family.
They’ve embraced American culture and the community spirit surrounding Minnesota United.
From cycling to work to promoting sustainability, the club’s ethos aligns with Ramsay’s values. “We’ve really immersed ourselves in the culture here,” he says.
“It’s been a great experience for us as a family.”
However, there are a few things they miss from home, like proper tea and British chocolate.
“The chocolate scene in the UK is definitely better,” Ramsay laughs.
“And they don’t have cordial here, which is quite a strange concept.”
Looking Ahead
Although Ramsay enjoys his current role, he hasn’t ruled out a return to Europe in the future.
“I can’t deny that I’d like to be back in Europe at some point,” he admits.
“But for now, I’m focused on making the most of this opportunity and enjoying the journey.
Whether I stay in the US or move back to Europe, I’m committed to growing as a coach and making the best of every chance I get.”
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