Fred says Erik ten Hag created clique-driven environment at Man Utd
- Former Manchester United midfielder Fred has revealed the turbulent reality behind Erik ten Hag’s tenure at Old Trafford, describing the Dutch coach as tactically very good, but with...
- Speaking on the Charla Podcast, Fred claimed that Ten Hag created a clique-driven environment at United where only his preferred Dutch players saw regular minutes.
- He argued with me, with Cristiano [Ronaldo], with Casemiro, with Rashford … He wouldn’t put me in to play, sometimes it got stressful.
Former Manchester United midfielder Fred has revealed the turbulent reality behind Erik ten Hag’s tenure at Old Trafford, describing the Dutch coach as tactically very good, but with the group he was a piece of crap.
Fred Details Dressing Room Fractures Under Ten Hag
Speaking on the Charla Podcast, Fred claimed that Ten Hag created a clique-driven environment at United where only his preferred Dutch players saw regular minutes. The midfielder stated that the manager argued with everyone in the squad, creating a stressful atmosphere that directly impacted players like Marcus Rashford and Casemiro.
He argued with everyone. He argued with me, with Cristiano [Ronaldo], with Casemiro, with Rashford … He wouldn’t put me in to play, sometimes it got stressful. With Ten Hag Only his Dutch players played. A clique-ridden coach. But, tactically, one of the best I’ve ever worked with.
Fred via ESPN
The Truth Behind the Cristiano Ronaldo Falling Out
Fred also addressed the high-profile conflict between Ten Hag and Cristiano Ronaldo that ultimately resulted in the veteran forward’s exit from the club. According to the Brazilian midfielder, the clash stemmed from a fundamental tactical mismatch over physical output, as Ten Hag demanded intense running from his forward line.
Because Ronaldo was in a later stage of his career, the manager frequently left the Portuguese star on the bench in favor of younger players who could press and run. Fred noted that Ten Hag wanted the team to run, but because Ronaldo was older, the manager took him out of the starting lineup, triggering the severe falling out that preceded Ronaldo’s departure.
Contrasting Ten Hag With Solskjaer and Mourinho
In the same podcast appearance, Fred offered favorable comparisons regarding other former Manchester United managers he worked under. He praised Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for his ability to unite the group, noting that the Norwegian was good with the squad and heavily assisted by his coaching staff in training.
Fred also shared insight into his relationship with Jose Mourinho, who initially brought him to Old Trafford and later managed him at Fenerbahçe. Describing Mourinho as a great and funny bloke, Fred recalled showing the Portuguese coach media rumors linking him to the vacant Brazil national team job before Carlo Ancelotti’s appointment.
F*** off, mate. I’m not going anywhere. I’m going to manage my club here.
Jose Mourinho via Fred