MIRROR
Erik ten Hag is excited for the future at Manchester United following confirmation of Sir Jim Ratcliffe‘s investment despite turning down talks with the Ineos chief.
Ratcliffe, 71, and his team will assume control of all sporting operations as per the terms of his £1.25billion agreement with the Glazers. The deal, which was confirmed on Christmas Eve, will see Ratcliffe acquire a 25 per cent stake in his boyhood club once formal ratification has taken place.
Speculation over a takeover has lingered for over a year following an initial announcement from the Glazers inviting “strategic alternatives” last November, and some fans are disappointed that the Americans are not being completely ousted. But Ten Hag, who is yet to speak to the incoming regime due to the congested festive schedule, is enthused about the future with Ratcliffe.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference on Friday ahead of United’s match against Nottingham Forest, Ten Hag explained: “I’m focused on the game so far, so I said no (to discussions).
“In this moment I don’t want to have distractions. In the coming days, weeks, there will be time for us, then I’ll know more. I think it’s a good thing, it’s very positive. We are looking really forward to work together. Ineos wants to work with me in this structure and I want to work with them.
“We always want to win, it doesn’t matter who is the leader. We are appointed here in this area, we need a winning culture no matter who is in the lead, no matter who is the owner. But, of course, owners can inspire you.”
Ten Hag went on to reiterate that he would sit down for talks and Ratcliffe and co in the coming weeks, adding: “As you said, the schedule is so condensed I didn’t have the time so far to speak with them but it will come.
