Bruno Fernandes has welcomed Erik ten Hag’s “strict” management style and believes the Dutchman’s “clear” philosophy can make Manchester United successful again.
Ten Hag has enjoyed a positive start to his new job since replacing interim coach Ralf Rangnick at the end of last season, with United thrashing Liverpool in his first pre-season game in Thailand, before also overseeing wins over Melbourne Victory and Crystal Palace in Australia.
Fernandes, who has impressed in those friendly matches, praised the 52-year-old’s no-nonsense and hands-on approach and says his ruthless attitude keeps the whole squad on their toes.
“He wants his rules, he demands a lot from us and he wants everyone on the same page doing the same things,” Fernandes told Sky Sports News ahead of today’s friendly against Aston Villa in Perth.”Everyone knows they have to be pushing to the same side and if not, they will be out of the team. That’s a good thing because if you want to be successful as a team you have to be always in the same way.
“He brings discipline but he also gives players the freedom to make choices. He has his own rules we have to follow, but he also wants to give some responsibility to the older ones.
“He’s strict, he’s tough, but at the same time, he’s a nice and easy guy to chat to.
“The main thing is following what he wants because I think he has a straight line that he wants to have with the team and I want to follow that straight line because I think we can be successful that way.
“If everyone understands that we have to follow the rules, follow what the coach demands and what the team demands, everyone will be on the same page, so that’s what will make the team successful.
“I think everyone will be happy at the end of the season if we can do everything he wants us to do.”
Charged with overseeing a big rebuild at Old Trafford, Ten Hag’s meticulous work has been clear during United’s pre-season so far.
In the early stages of their 4-0 friendly win over rivals Liverpool, it was clear the tenets Ten Hag had been drilling into his players – sharper reaction, surety in transition, confidence on the ball and cohesion without it – had been taken on board.
Asked if the team can already feel the difference in their style of play, Fernandes said: “I think it’s clear.”