What Erik ten Hag told his players after the Manchester United ownership change

The year 2023 has been quite the rollercoaster for Manchester United. From the never-ending takeover drama to player issues and media troubles, it seems like the club has been making more headlines off the pitch than victories on the pitch this season. And at the center of it all is Erik ten Hag, the man in charge. Amidst the chaos, he has been asked to remain the face of the club, a daunting task that has undoubtedly taken its toll.

As the highly anticipated arrival of British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe was finally confirmed on Sunday night, one would expect Erik ten Hag to be overwhelmed with the new developments. However, to everyone's surprise, the Dutch tactician has remained surprisingly composed, displaying a calm and collected demeanor. While he skillfully avoids discussing his future under the new ownership, he has called upon his players to step up and lead the team as they face Aston Villa, aiming to break their four-game goal drought.

"I am sure the fans are very disappointed in us and we have to put things right," he told a press conference on Monday. "We have to do things differently and we really appreciate all the time they're supporting us, even with the setbacks we have during this season. They're all the time behind us and we are really appreciative of that. But of course we need any help [we can get]. But first of all, the team and I have to do it."

United's lack of creativity was evident during their match at the London Stadium on Saturday, which resulted in their 13th defeat of the season. Ten Hag, true to his nature, has not shied away from giving opportunities to young talents. The team's defensive injuries compelled him to hand a debut to 19-year-old Willy Kambwala against West Ham. However, as is often the case with inexperienced players, there can be instances where their lack of experience becomes a factor. 

Considering the upcoming match against high-flying Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Tuesday night, ten Hag will undoubtedly look to his more seasoned players for decisiveness on the field. It is crucial for the experienced members of the team to take charge, providing the leadership and composure necessary to secure a positive result.

"In every game, they have to step up," he observed. "I said the word two or three times now: the players have to take responsibility. I have to take responsibility and the players have to take responsibility."

"But everyone. Maybe in moments you expect from the seniors even more with young players around. But if you are good enough, you are also old enough. We have to do it together. It doesn't matter what age it is. We have to put a team [out] who has to win the game.

"I am not disappointed by the attitude. But of course we know what the standard is at Manchester United and we have to win as a team. So I take the word responsibility. We have to take that as a team and every individual has to contribute 100 percent in that responsibility we have."