Manchester United cult hero Javier Hernandez believes that one player under Erik ten Hag perfectly sums up the “crucial part” of the Red Devils’ core identity.
Erik ten Hag’s services at Old Trafford have been retained after Ineos completed their end-of-season review following the FA Cup final win in May.
The Manchester United manager has endured both high and low points in his first two seasons at Old Trafford, including lifting two pieces of major silverware.
Ten Hag lifted the Carabao Cup in his debut season with the Red Devils before the Dutchman led United to an FA Cup trophy in the 2023-24 season.
Despite the FA Cup triumph, however, Ten Hag was met with criticism over United’s form last season and the Red Devils limped to an eighth-place finish in the league.
United ensured their place in the Europa League for the 2024-25 campaign after their 2-1 win over Manchester City in the FA Cup final at Wembley.
Hernandez praises Man Utd star
Erik ten Hag has been credited with the development of Manchester United’s academy players since he arrived from Ajax in 2022.
Kobbie Mainoo had a breakout season under Ten Hag in the 2023-24 campaign and went on to play a key part in England’s Euro 2024 run this summer.
Alejandro Garnacho, much like Kobbie Mainoo, has established himself as a regular in the United first team and has become a key player for former Ajax boss Ten Hag.
Speaking to Manchester United’s official website, Javier Hernandez insisted that the likes of Alejandro Garnacho are “proof” that they can create the best kind of players.
“That’s the beautiful part about Manchester United,” he said
“Regardless of the past years. Yeah, we’ve been in very transitional times and sometimes things didn’t go as well as we wanted. But I think the youth academy still keep bringing players.
“The youth in Manchester United [was there] since I was there in the past, and now it’s being a crucial part of our identity as Manchester United.
“You can get the best players around the world in different teams. But as well you can kind of create them, you know, and I think Garnacho and other players are very good proof of that.
“I think the team is getting there; I think the team is getting stronger and stronger. The young guys are getting the time that they need.”
Hernandez backs Man Utd’s future direction
Hernandez, also known as Chicharito, had a successful spell at Old Trafford and lifted two Premier League titles under United legend Sir Alex Ferguson.
The 36-year-old former United striker believes that the Red Devils are now on the “correct path” after lifting the FA Cup trophy last season.
“I think Manchester United has been criticised sometimes in a harsh way,” Hernandez said.
“We were used to [seeing] always Manchester United fighting for titles, at least one title, and fighting for the league at least, you know, and being in [the] Champions League.
“But now I think this [the FA Cup] proves that things are going in a correct path.”
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