Erik ten Hag’s spell at Ajax saw him lean heavily on the Dutch club’s famed youth system to bolster his squad.
By time he left Ajax, he had given debuts to 23 different players, and Manchester United’s exciting young prospects will be filled with optimism by his arrival.
Two Manchester United youngsters have already reportedly caught his eye, Alejandro Garnacho and Hannibal, report The Mirror.
Garnacho, 17, made his debut at the end of last season, while Hannibal, 19, started for the first time in the final game.
Ten Hag impressed by Hannibal and Garnacho
Garnacho led United to win the FA Youth Cup last season and recently scored four goals for Argentina’s under-20 side during the international break.
The Mirror report Erik ten Hag watched the FA Youth Cup final and believes Garnacho is a player who can make an impact in the Red Devils first team squad next season.
He is also said to be ‘impressed’ by Hannibal, who has already made 16 senior international appearances for Tunisia.
This early positive opinion of both players helps them, but offers no guarantees. Both will have to work hard to actually earn their places in pre-season and show Ten Hag what they can do, first hand.
Both players’ chances will be dependent on how United’s transfer business pans out. For instance, if United sign Christian Eriksen, then Hannibal’s first team opportunities could be dented short-term. Garnacho meanwhile could be better off if United don’t sign Antony.
Hannibal could be sent out on loan for the first half of the season at least, if he believes it will aid his chances of a World Cup starting spot for his country. But long-term, the midfielder has a real chance to develop under Ten Hag.
Last week he was talked up by Antonio Valencia, the fourth player to captain United who has talked him up, and United’s new manager is also keen to see what he can do. Both players will hope to make the pre-season tour in early July.
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