Erik ten Hag has declared that he can break Manchester City’s and Liverpool’s duopoly of English football while Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp are still in power.
Ten Hag was unveiled as United’s new manager on Monday, replacing interim boss Ralf Rangnick after a turbulent season at Old Trafford. He will be assisted by Mitchell van der Gaag and Steve McClaren.
City and Liverpool fought out another dramatic title race on Sunday after dominating the domestic game again this season, finishing more than 30 points clear of United who languished in sixth place.
Erik ten Hag insists he has a ‘huge’ plan to rebuild Manchester United as their new boss
The Dutchman sat down for his first press conference as United boss at Old Trafford
Ten Hag was asked if he can break the stranglehold established by United’s two main rivals while Guardiola and Klopp are still in situ, and replied: ‘I think, yeah.
‘In this moment I admire them both. Liverpool and Manchester City play fantastic football, but you will always see an era can come to an end. I look forward to a battle with them and I’m sure other clubs will want to do that.
‘I don’t see this as a risk. I think this club has a great history and let’s make a future. I’m really excited to do that with the people around in the club – work hard, be 100 per cent committed and I’m sure we will have success.
‘I have been to Manchester before but this is the first time at Old Trafford. I’m impressed. It feels like my home already. I cannot wait for the first match and the stands are full. It will be an exciting experience.
Ten Hag suggested Man City and Liverpool’s era of dominance can come to an end under him
He added Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp’s eras could come to an end before they decide to leave
‘I have seen a lot in the past. Manchester United have a lot of generations who are really successful. There is always a fantastic ambience and I look forward to that experience. In every country I have a favourite…