Manchester United need a determined man to lead the team, a man of principles and knowledge, and above all – a man who won’t succumb to the immense pressure that comes with the job of managing such a big club. The early days of Erik Ten Hag’s reign suggest that the Red Devils have indeed found the right man for the role.After laying down the rules of training that will ensure his team adopts a proactive style of play, the former Ajax tactician responded to widespread media speculation about the future of two key players – their biggest superstar Cristiano Ronaldo and captain Harry Maguire.BREAKING: Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag says Cristiano Ronaldo is in his plans and is not for sale 👇 pic.twitter.com/Ld4hkSqKGO— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) July 11, 2022 Ronaldo is staying! Despite a week in which the Portuguese was linked with a high-profile exit from Old Trafford. But the former Juventus and Real Madrid goalscorer won’t leave United again – at least not in this transfer window. According to Ten Hag, CR7 will remain a Manchester United weapon – and a bit of a problem.”I have read, but what I say is Cristiano is not for sale, he is in our plans, and we want success together. I spoke with him before this issue came up, I had a conversation with him, and I had a good talk. That is between Cristiano and me. What I can confirm is we had a really good conversation together.”New Manchester United coach says that Ronaldo’s absence from the pre-season tour of Asia is not a result of his desire to jump ship but a genuine need to address some personal issues outside football.Tuesday, 02.00: (1.15) Canada W (7.75) Costa Rica W (18.0)On the other hand, United’s captain Harry Maguire was often criticised for his issues on the pitch. Or, to put it bluntly, his frequent abject displays led a big part of United’s faithful to call for his head and at least get the captain’s armband off him. There is even an ongoing debate among former footballers about whether Maguire deserves to lead the club. Former United skipper Gary Neville defends Maguire, while another ex-England international Danny Mills brands Maguire a disgrace. Ten Hag won’t allow having his mind made up by comments on social media, though. Maguire remains captain, and that’s final.”Harry Maguire is the captain. I have to get to know all the players, but he’s an established captain, and he’s achieved a lot of success. I don’t see this as an issue.”Dear Man Utd fans, I come here this morning to tell you your manager Erik Ten Hag has confirmed Harry Maguire will be Manchester United captain for the season.”I have to get to know all the players, but he’s an established captain…”I’m wishing you well this season. Signed JB pic.twitter.com/1419rexR6T— Juliet Bawuah (@julietbawuah) July 11, 2022 Maguire will play against Liverpool in United’s first pre-season friendly on Tuesday in Bangkok – and Ten Hag is looking forward to seeing his side in action.”Playing against Liverpool is always exciting. It’s a big game we’re looking forward to and a good test for us. The standard of Manchester United is to win every game, so we will start with that in mind and be determined, and we are happy to play this game in Bangkok for many, many fans.”It will be a pivotal year for Manchester United – and Ten Hag knows that every day and every decision he makes will be analysed and commented on heavily. It comes with the gig.
