Sir Alex Ferguson has given his first verdict on incoming Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag.
The Dutchman will take over from Ralf Rangnick at the end of the season. Rangnick will continue to operate at Old Trafford as he will begin a two-year consultancy role.
Ten Hag’s main job is to get Manchester United back in the mix for Premier League titles, as well as other trophies.
Their last pieces of silverware came in 2016-17, during the tenure of Jose Mourinho. He led them to Carabao Cup and Europa League glory that season.
The Red Devils did reach the final of last term’s Europa League. However, they were beaten on penalties by Villarreal. Goalkeeper David de Gea missed the crucial spot-kick.
Ferguson didn’t speak about Ten Hag’s appointment when it was announced a week ago. He has now broken his silence on the summer arrival, while appearing at a recent event.
The legendary Scot said (via the Daily Mail): “I hope he does well, because the club needs someone to get in control.”
Ferguson added: “I hope he does well, yeah.”
Evra takes different stance to Ferguson
However, former left-back Patrice Evra, who made 379 appearances for United under Ferguson, is taking a slightly different approach.
He wants fans and players alike to focus on the present, as United pursue a spot in the top six.
“Dear United fans, people keep asking me the question, ‘what do I think of Ten Hag?’ My answer is really simple.
“Ten Hag is not the present, he is the really near future. That’s why I want you to focus on the present, even if the present doesn’t look that good.
“We have still got four games left for the Champions League spots. I know most of you don’t believe in our team, but me, I believe. I believe in our team, I believe in this badge and I believe that history never dies.”
United host Chelsea at Old Trafford on Thursday night. After that, they play Brentford on Monday at 20:00.
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