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Rob DawsonReporter
Netherlands Coach Louis van Gaal asked Erik ten Hag to stay away from the manager’s job at Manchester United.
Sources have told ESPN that Ten Hag was interviewed as part of United’s search for a new long-term manager.
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But when asked if Ajax The manager should consider a move to Old Trafford, Van Gaal – who led United from 2014 to 2016 – said the 52-year-old should think again.
“I think Ten Hag is a great coach; I’ve said it many times,” Van Gaal said at Monday’s press conference.
“A great coach is good for Man United. But Man United is a commercial club. Those are tough choices for a coach. As a coach, you should like a club. more soccer sets.”
Van Gaal, who returned as manager of the Netherlands national team last year, has criticized United’s pre-season tour plans during his first summer in charge, complaining that there was too much focus on the game. make money and not enough prepare the players for the new season.
“We have to prepare for the season and when you have commercials and long distances – a lot of flying and jets – that’s not positive for a good preparation,” he said.
Van Gaal went on to win the FA Cup in 2016 but was sacked shortly after the final and replaced by Jose Mourinho.
Ten Hag is one of four names on United’s shortlist to become their next permanent manager, along with Mauricio Pochettino, Luis Enrique and Julen Lopetegui.
Sources told ESPN that United believe the Dutchman would fit well at Old Trafford but stressed that they have yet to decide on a clear front-runner for the role.
“I will not accompany his career,” Van Gaal added. “If he wanted it, he would call me. We talked. He should have chosen a football club, not a commercial club.”
