Ten Hag faces ‘greater pressure’ at Man Utd than Ajax, says Stam

Erik ten Hag will face greater pressure at Manchester United than at Ajax if he takes over at Old Trafford, according to former United defender Jaap Stam.

With interim manager Ralf Rangnick set to step down at the end of the season, Ten Hag has been tipped to become the next manager of the Premier League side. Stam says Ten Hag will face more challenges due to the expectation at United.

“The pressure at United is much greater. The club management can be patient, but that does not mean you get time from the outside world,” Stam said.

“The title and the Champions League are expected. That is no different under a new coach.”

Squad overhaul at Old Trafford

The first thing Ten Hag will have to do at United is clear out a lot of the deadwood and underperforming stars. Several players, including Paul Pogba and Cristiano Ronaldo could end up leaving Old Trafford.

Stam went on to add that any coach walking into United will have a tough job on their hands.

“Something has to change but you cannot say, ‘these 15 must go and these 10 remain’,” he continued.

“There are many large contracts. But some changes are crucial for a breath of fresh air and success. It becomes difficult if they do not fit into your system. There is a world of difference between the Netherlands and England.”

No trophies in five years for United

United are looking to add silverware to their trophy cabinet, and are trophyless since 2017. Stam added that Ten Hag must impose himself upon the club to deliver results.

“In England, there are three high-level matches every week, with good players at every club, and sometimes you have to change the way you play.

“If you achieve results, trust grows. However, clubs often ask for £40million more when United knocks.

“But whoever you do it with, the style of play and what you expect from players in it must be made very clear.”