28 September 2023 , 20:21
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Daley Blind has spoken of his admiration for Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag and has the personality to lead the club back to the top.
Ten Hag was Ajax boss when the Netherlands international rejoined the Amsterdam club from United in 2018 and played under the coach in 171 games across four years. That preceded the boss moving to Old Trafford, while Blind left for Bayern Munich in January 2023.
Blind has also spoken about how Ten Hag manages players, praising his “offensive” style and not leaving “a space for doubt” on what he demands. Most interestingly for United fans, he outlined how the boss was not afraid to part ways with big personalities in his squad if they do not agree with him.
This was the case a year ago with Cristiano Ronaldo ’s exit from United, before David de Gea – who replaced the Portuguese superstar as the highest earning player at Old Trafford – did not have his contract renewed, with neither fitting Ten Hag’s style of play.
Ten Hag has now banned winger Jadon Sancho from using the club’s facilities while the player’s teammates have attempted to persuade him to apologise to the manager. The Red Devils boss is believed to be keen to avoid a disillusioned player spreading negativity and causing disharmony within his squad.
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As with Ronaldo and De Gea, there has been no room with negotiation or compromising on his principles on behalf of the boss – who is intent on his players following his rules and prioritising the overall benefit of his squad than individuals.
“He was very important to me,” Blind explained in an interview with The Athletic about Ten Hag’s coaching ability. “He explained his playing style, which was offensive. I had my doubts but after a month I was sold on it and believed in every part of it.
Have Your Say! Should Sancho issue an apology to Ten Hag ? Tell us what you think here.
Ten Hag and Sancho's relationship has deteriorated (Manchester United via Getty Images)“We also had the right players to do it. He is tactically so clear in what he wants and it’s easy for players to follow that. If you leave things open, there’s a space for doubt.”
Blind said, with a refence to management of players: “We became like a machine, better and better. In time, he can do that for United. He’s a great manager, great personality. He’s direct, honest, and tells you what he sees. He’s not afraid to make big decisions. If you don’t like it, you can go another way because his train goes on.”