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“It’s not nice to hurt something you love.”
Those were the words of Erik ten Hag in his pre-match press conference before Manchester United’s game against FC Twente.
However, the only pain inflicted last night was on 70,000 home fans at Old Trafford, who witnessed another tame performance from their team.
United drew 1-1 in their opening Europa League game of the season.
Christian Eriksen struck first in the 35th minute before Twente equalised through Sam Lammers in the 68th.
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Dutch Media React to Manchester United’s Performance
Ten Hag is a familiar face in Dutch football, making 162 appearances for Twente in his playing career and managing Utrecht and Ajax in the Eredivisie.
Last night, the Dutch media gave scolding reviews of his side’s performance.
Former Dutch international Ruud Gullit was unsurprised by United’s lacklustre effort.
“I’m not shocked because I see this every week”, he said.
Dutch pundit Danny Koevermans shared Gullit’s sentiments, comparing United to a mid-table Premier League team.
“We’ve actually gotten used to it a bit. It’s not surprising at all when you look at Manchester United.”
“They’re not significantly better than a mid-table club like Wolverhampton Wanderers”, he said.
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Television pundit Theo Janssen questioned whether Ten Hag has implemented a consistent playing style at United.
“How long has this process been going on? There is still no recognisable playing style, in terms of pressing and building up.”
“It is hoping for an individual moment from a player so that they can create something”, he argued.
Dutch news outlet Algemeen Dagblad wrote: “Sam Lammers’ goal was one for the books. It was sensational, historic. And it was also justified.”
Having won six trophies in his five years at Ajax, one might expect that the press in the Netherlands would hold Ten Hag in high regard.
However, the scrutiny he has faced in England is being reflected in his homeland.
With only three wins in seven games this season, the pressure continues to ensue on Ten Hag at United.
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