Benni McCarthy insists he wants to make a difference at United and also change the mindset of the youngsters.
New Manchester United coach Benni McCarthy says he wants to make a difference and change the mindset of young players at the club.
The former Blackburn striker was appointment as a first-team coach was announced on Saturday and was present at Old Trafford matchday on Sunday as a member of United staff.
“I used to come off this pitch with my tail between my legs because I always used to get a hiding here!” quipped McCarthy, during a brief chat with MUTV’s Niall McCaughan and two former Reds in Wes Brown and Quinton Fortune.
“I’m just excited and happy to be here. How can you not be when you’re standing in the Theatre of Dreams?”
As the last coach to join Ten Hag’s backroom team ahead of the 2022/23 season, McCarthy will work closely with the new manager and his other summer appointments, Steve McClaren and Mitchell van der Gaag.
Speaking about his role, the South African said: “[I want to] help these young players, push them, change their mindset and really try to make the difference to United this season.”
“Hopefully this season we’re going to see a completely revived United, a hungry bunch of players and a team that’s going to be able to challenge to get into the Champions League and change the dynamics of the Man Citys and Liverpools.”
The friendly against Spanish side Rayo Vallecano featured lots of talented youngsters from United’s Academy, with Tahith Chong, James Garner, Alejandro Garnacho and Ethan Laird all selected for a rare start in a senior fixture.
They were followed by Isak Hansen-Aaroen, Hannibal, Zidane Iqbal and Shola Shoretire, all of whom came off the bench where McCarthy was sitting among the other coaches.
“There is no bigger stage than this and to be here is a privilege. They must just grasp the opportunity,” said Benni.
“When you get the smallest chance that you get, you must grab it with both hands.”
