Fred has criticised Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United tenure while acknowledging that the Dutchman was one of the best tactical coaches he had worked with.
The Brazilian midfielder, who played for United during Ten Hag’s time in charge, described a tense atmosphere within the squad and claimed the manager frequently clashed with players.
“[Ten Hag] argued with everyone. He argued with me, with Cristiano, with Casemiro, with Rashford,” Fred said.
He also recalled feeling frustrated by his treatment, saying: “He wouldn’t put me in to play, sometimes it got stressful… He wanted the team to run, but Cristiano (was already) older. He took Cristiano out [of the starting lineup], and then there was a falling out.”
Fred was particularly critical of Ten Hag’s relationship with the squad, adding: “With the group, he was a piece of crap.”
Fred praises Ten Hag’s tactical ability
Despite his criticism, Fred said his former manager possessed considerable tactical expertise.
“Ten Hag was a clique-ridden coach,” he said. “But, tactically, he was one of the best I’ve ever worked with.”
Manchester United won the League Cup in Fred’s final game for the club, defeating Manchester City in a result that extended Ten Hag’s time in the job by several months.
Fred subsequently spent three years at Fenerbahce before returning to Brazil this summer.
