‘We have to change’… Erik ten Hag gives clear verdict on Manchester United appointment of Omar Berrada

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Erik ten Hag has given his reaction to Omar Berrada’s appointment as CEO of Manchester United in the summer.

Omar Berrada is the first major appointment behind the scenes for Manchester United as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos prepare to acquire 25 per cent of the club.

It was a major shock when United confirmed the deal which would see the highly rated Moroccan swap the blue of Manchester City for the red of United.

Fans of the Red Devils believe that Pep Guardiola’s comments demonstrated the concern from those at the Etihad Stadium with Berrada’s decision to leave a well-oiled machine for a work in progress in United.

Ten Hag on Berrada

Speaking ahead of United’s game against Newport County in the FA Cup, the Dutchman was asked for his opinions about the appointment of Berrada.

“It gives spirit in this whole club,” Ten Hag admitted. “Everyone notices this club is going into a period of changes, and it’s because we want to achieve high targets. Standards have to change, we started with this one-and-a-half year ago.

“I’m sure INEOS and me are very aligned on this [Omar Berrada]. We understand we have to change. We started that process last season with the dressing room but also many departments.

“I am very happy to raise the standards, to collaborate more and Ineos can have a big impact on that.”

Despite the confidence from the Dutchman that he can work well with Berrada and Ineos, you wonder if time is running out for the Red Devils to turn things around and keep Ten Hag around.

Ineos’ decision

As the end of the season looms large for Ineos, they may have to make their first key decision which could make or break their time at Old Trafford.

If United continues to falter under Ten Hag this campaign, a new manager would surely have to be the priority for Ineos and Ratcliffe.

Liverpool may well be in the race for Brighton & Hove Albion boss Roberto De Zerbi, and you wonder if United would be keen on the Italian but either way, managerial targets may well need to be discussed.

However, sacking the manager in the early months of the season can be disastrous so you wonder if there is an appetite from Ineos to stick with the 52-year-old.