Erik Ten Hag’s Masterclass Management Shines Through in Ronaldo Fallout
In a rare interview, Steve McClaren, Erik ten Hag’s former assistant manager, shared the story behind Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure from Manchester United, praising the Dutch tactician’s handling of the situation. McClaren’s insider perspective offers a unique insight into the tumultuous spell, revealing Ten Hag’s unwavering dedication to his vision and strict discipline.
A Departure from the Norm
As we know, Ten Hag’s reign at Manchester United was marked by a dispute with Ronaldo, with the Portuguese superstar launching a public attack on his manager. However, McClaren asserts that Ten Hag remained unyielding in his approach, sticking to his core principles and refusing to bend to Ronaldo’s demands. This rigidity is quintessentially Dutch, emphasizing the importance of setting a clear vision and upholding standards.
Injuring Ronaldo’s Ego
McClaren describes Ten Hag’s initial standards as "set rules," "set way of playing," and "if you didn’t run, you didn’t play." In essence, the Dutch coach prioritized performance over fame, recognizing that ego wasn’t an acceptable reason to deviate from the script. When Ronaldo found himself on the receiving end of this approach, McClaren believes it was an awakening moment for the former superstar.
A Glutton for Punishment?
The Jamaican national team manager, known for his astute analysis, sees Ten Hag’s uncompromising stance as a calculated risk. By challenging the status quo, McClaren believes the Dutchman not only set a standard for the team but also ensured that those who failed to meet expectations would have an opportunity to grow or make way for others. As McClaren astutely pointed out, "perception is not reality" in the cutthroat world of professional football.
Backing Ten Hag to the Hilt
McClaren’s admiration for Ten Hag is evident, stating that the first season under his management was a resounding success, with a Carabao Cup triumph and Champions League qualification. Acknowledging the struggles of the second season due to injuries, McClaren remained optimistic about the Red Devils’ future, commending the ownership’s unwavering support for their coach.
The Path Ahead
As Manchester United rebuilds and rebrings glory to Old Trafford, McClaren’s comments provide a refreshing perspective on Ten Hag’s leadership. For those seeking a silver lining, the Jamaican’s words serve as a reassuring reminder that the road ahead, though uncertain, can be navigated by backing the right man in Ten Hag.
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