Ferdinand sees great influences from Ten Hag when he returns to Carrington


Tuesday, February 21, 2023 at 11:44• Mart Oude Nijeweeme • Last update: 11:44

Rio Ferdinand has shown his face at Carrington, Manchester United’s training complex, for the first time in a long time. The former top defender of the Mancunians was visiting because of an interview with Bruno Fernandes on behalf of BT Sportsbut immediately took the opportunity to chat with several former colleagues behind the scenes.

Ferdinand says in his YouTube series FIVE feel something about the staff. “They are more optimistic, they come to work satisfied every day,” concludes the former man-decker. “That was all generated by Erik ten Hag, his team and people behind the scenes. You can’t change the culture at a club on your own, you do that together. They are back on the right track and are still competing for four prizes Not that I think they’ll win four, but it’s nice to go to Carrington and feel optimistic.”

According to Ferdinand, a lot has changed behind the scenes since the arrival of Ten Hag. “It’s much more positive. Even the cafeteria has changed, really everything. It looks different, it feels different, the food is different. It felt so negative here at first. Now I was standing there and I felt that something was happening I don’t know what, or where, but the atmosphere is different. Confidence is back.” In his first months, Ten Hag turned the range in the canteen upside down to make his mark. Certain meals were banned and players were reminded of their responsibilities.

A crucial week lies ahead for United. Next Thursday, the Ten Hag team will play the return in the Europa League against Barcelona (2-2) at home. Three days later, Wembley will host the EFL Cup final against Newcastle United. It is Ten Hag’s first chance at a prize as manager of United. The meeting with Liverpool awaits next Sunday in the Premier League. The Reds are well behind United with 35 points from 22 games, but played two games less.