‘He's doing a brilliant job’ — Ex-Manchester United coach backs Ten Hag despite recent pressure

Former Manchester United managers David Moyes and Sir Alex Ferguson | Imago

‘He's doing a brilliant job’ — Ex-Manchester United coach backs Ten Hag despite recent pressure

Ayoola Kelechi 22:13 - 08.10.2024

The former Manchester United manager was in support of his successor

Despite Erik ten Hag facing mounting criticism and pressure following Manchester United's poor start to the season, former United manager David Moyes has voiced strong support for the Dutchman.

With the Red Devils currently in a crisis, Moyes believes Ten Hag is still the man to take the club forward and hopefully regain its past glory.

Moyes praises Ten Hag’s resilience

Moyes, who knows firsthand the challenges of managing Manchester United, has come to Erik ten Hag's defence.

David Moyes as manager of Manchester United talks to Wayne Rooney of Manchester United - Barclays Premier League - Manchester Utd vs Liverpool - Old Trafford Stadium || Image credit: Imago

As Manchester United struggle through one of their worst starts to a Premier League season, sitting in 14th place, and after a shaky Europa League draw against Porto, calls for Ten Hag's departure have grown louder.

However, Moyes sees something admirable in how the Dutchman is handling the pressure. Speaking to BBC Sport, the former Manchester United manager said, “I think he's doing a brilliant job.

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag pictured on October 3, 2024 (Credit: Imago)

“He has shown incredible resilience in the situation he's in and deserves credit for how well he's conducted himself.”

“I don't see him ducking any questions or interviews. That takes a lot of character, especially in such a high-pressure role. You have to give him credit for that."

Moyes familiar with Old Trafford pressure

The Scottish manager, who succeeded Sir Alex Ferguson as Manchester United's manager in 2013, understands the scrutiny that comes with the role.

David Moyes was widely criticised for signing Marouane Fellaini while Manchester United manager

Although he was dismissed after just nine months in charge, he knows how the weight of expectations can overwhelm a manager, especially at a club like Manchester United, and was keen to point out that the Red Devils’ unique atmosphere makes it a difficult job, no matter the circumstances or the person in charge.

Erik ten Hag
Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag pictured on September 29, 2024 (Credit: Imago) Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag pictured on September 29, 2024 (Credit: Imago)

As Ten Hag continues to navigate the storm, speculation swirls about his future, with reports suggesting that ex-Bayern Munich and Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel and Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy are being considered as potential replacements.