‘Brutal’ Erik ten Hag to offload Man United stars after update – pundit
Erik ten Hag may be set to tell some Man United players he wants them gone this summer, according to Gabby Agbonlahor.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Aston Villa and England attacker claimed Ten Hag needs to be “brutally honest” because he has a “big job” on his hands.
The Manchester Evening News reported on Monday (16 May) that the Dutchman, 52, has turned his attention to matters at Old Trafford after finishing the season with Ajax.
He has already held a recruitment meeting as well as being involved in discussions over pre-season and next season.
“He knows that it’s a big job,” Agbonlahor told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley.
“He will know there is no time for sentiment, no time to be anybody’s friend.
“He’s got to come in, meet every player and be honest. To some he’ll say ‘I’m not having you, you can go’ to others he’ll say ‘Yes, you need to do better but I want to keep you’. He’s got to be brutally honest.
“The job he’s got on his hands just to catch the top four, forget about the top two, is massive.
“He will know he needs players in and players out. He knows he’s got to be a strong manager because the media will eat him alive after 10 games if he hasn’t got Man United firing.”
United could be competing in the Europa Conference League next season if they don’t beat Crystal Palace on the final day (22 May) and West Ham beat Brighton & Hove Albion.
If they are victorious over Palace, they will finish sixth and secure Europa League football.
In other news, Man United are hijacking an AC Milan deal.