Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has fired back at former Red Devils coach Benni McCarthy after the South African accused him of “lacking passion.” McCarthy, who spent a brief stint as ten Hag’s assistant at Old Trafford, made the comments during an interview with the Sunday World.
In his interview, McCarthy suggested that ten Hag’s demeanor on the touchline could be perceived as lacking enthusiasm. “I’m a passionate guy, and I think football is about passion,” McCarthy said. “Sometimes, I feel like ten Hag could show a bit more passion on the touchline.”
Ten Hag, however, was quick to dismiss McCarthy’s criticism. The Dutchman insisted that he is fully committed to his role at Manchester United and that he is always passionate about his team’s success.
“I’m a passionate person,” ten Hag said in a press conference. I’m always trying to motivate my players and inspire them to give their best. I think the results speak for themselves.”
Ten Hag’s response to McCarthy’s comments comes at a time when Manchester United are enjoying a resurgence under his leadership. The Red Devils have qualified for the Champions League and are challenging for the Premier League title.
McCarthy’s comments have sparked a debate among fans and pundits about ten Hag’s management style. While some agree with McCarthy’s assessment, others believe that ten Hag’s calm demeanor is a strength rather than a weakness.
Benni McCarthy joined Manchester United as an assistant coach to Erik ten Hag in July 2022. He had previously worked with ten Hag at Ajax, where he was a successful striker.
McCarthy’s time at Manchester United was short-lived. He left the club in March 2023 to take over as manager of the South African national team.
McCarthy’s comments about ten Hag have come as a surprise to many. The two men had appeared to have a good working relationship during their time together at Manchester United.
Erik ten Hag took over as Manchester United manager in the summer of 2022. He arrived at the club with a reputation for being a demanding and disciplinarian coach.
Ten Hag has made significant changes at Manchester United since his arrival. He has brought in a number of new players and has implemented a new style of play.
The Red Devils have shown significant improvement under ten Hag’s leadership. They have qualified for the Champions League and have challenged for the Premier League title.
The debate over Erik ten Hag’s management style is likely to continue. While some believe that he is a demanding coach who can get the best out of his players, others argue that he lacks the passion and charisma needed to be a successful manager.
Ten Hag’s response to McCarthy’s criticism has shown that he is not afraid to defend himself. It remains to be seen whether his management style will continue to be successful at Manchester United.
