Erik ten Hag has said Manchester United’s former players in the media sometimes created additional pressure for members of his squad during his time as manager at Old Trafford.
Gary Neville, Rio Ferdinand, Wayne Rooney, Roy Keane and Paul Scholes are among the United figures who regularly appear as pundits on mainstream broadcasters or speak through their own podcasts and online channels.
Ten Hag said some players were affected and annoyed by the commentary, although he insisted the presence of high-profile former players was not unique to United and should not be used as an excuse.
Erik ten Hag on Manchester United legends in the media
“It’s no different than Bayern Munich or Ajax; they do the same. But they are (part of United’s) history, and they do not always know what’s going on. Football evolves,” Ten Hag told The Athletic.
He acknowledged the achievements of the former United players and said he respected their contribution to the club, while stressing that he had maintained positive relationships with several of them.
“I have to say, I had a very good relationship with them all, with Gary Neville, Rio Ferdinand. I did nice interviews with them both, so it didn’t hurt me,” he said.
“Of course, they have podcasts, they have their models. Sometimes it’s difficult for players. Some of them get affected by it, get annoyed by it.”
Ten Hag said the former players could do more to support the club and its current squad, while recognising that criticism often comes from those with the strongest attachment to an institution.
“They achieved massive successes. But also, they can help the club more, help the players more. There should be two ways that they support it. But I think always the thing you most love, you most criticise,” he said.
United’s former players have remained prominent commentators during a difficult period for the club following Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure, offering views on the problems facing successive teams and managers.
