Former Manchester United assistant coach Benni McCarthy has criticized Erik ten Hag’s lack of passion, suggesting it affects the team’s performance and connection with players.
Former Manchester United assistant coach Benni McCarthy has voiced his concerns about manager Erik ten Hag’s leadership style, amid growing speculation about the Dutchman’s future at Old Trafford.
McCarthy, who worked under Ten Hag before departing the club in June, expressed disappointment in the manager’s perceived lack of passion compared to other coaches in modern football.
“In modern football, I believe that players want to see a bit more passion in their coach,” McCarthy is quoted as telling Portuguese outlet ZEROZERO, external.
“They need to feel that the coach is with them and willing to fight alongside them.
“Tactically, I feel that Erik is at the top. He lacks a bit of that fire, that passion. That’s where we differ, him and I.”
While acknowledging Ten Hag’s tactical prowess, McCarthy suggested that a more visible display of fire and commitment from the manager could have a positive impact on the players. He believes that this lack of passion has created a disconnect between Ten Hag and the squad.
McCarthy also pointed out that the performances of certain players, particularly Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot, stood out in training and on the pitch due to their commitment and focus.
“If some of the Manchester United players had what Bruno [Fernandes] and Diogo [Dalot] have, it would have been easier to achieve good results,” he added.
“They both trained with incredible concentration, giving everything they had. Some of the others didn’t do the same.
“This ended up limiting United’s progress, because some players weren’t training to the best of their ability.
“Even in games, the data showed us that some players were at their peak performance and others a little below.”
However, he lamented that not all of their teammates demonstrated the same level of dedication, which he feels has limited Manchester United’s ability to achieve consistent success.
McCarthy’s comments highlight concerns over player performances and suggest that greater effort from certain individuals could have helped improve the team’s progress under Ten Hag.
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