Erik ten Hag has written an open letter to Manchester United fans, after securing their first trophy in six years by defeating Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final.
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Not since Jose Mourinho’s side beat Ajax in the Europa League final in 2017 had someone from United’s senior team lifted a trophy for the club.
However, in just a few months in charge at Old Trafford, Ten Hag has turned things around at the club, securing the Carabao Cup thanks to goals from Casemiro and, eventually, Marcus Rashford.
His dancing at full time only earned the Dutchman even more fans at the club, even if Roy Keane wasn’t all that impressed with his moves.
Now the 53-year-old has sent an open letter to the fans, praising them and explaining that, whilst he knows how important the trophy win was, they won’t be resting on their laurels.
“To all Manchester United supporters I wanted to take the time to address you directly this morning,” the letter began.
“When I arrived at the club, we spoke about the challenge and importance of reuniting this group of players with our amazing fans.
“Believe me, this squad knows exactly how important you are. The bond between the supporters and the team is there for everyone to see and what we experienced together yesterday will only further strengthen that bond.
“The atmosphere generated by those of you at Wembley was incredible. From the first minute until the last you were there with us, driving the team on, supporting and encouraging them to get over the line to bring the trophy back to Manchester.
“For those of you who couldn’t be there, we felt your support before, during and after the game. Know that each and every one of you will always play your part in this team being successful.
“I am proud of my players and staff for their preparation and performances. Yesterday, we saw the required desire, spirit and determination that we must demand of everyone who represents Manchester United. We set ourselves high standards every day. At Wembley we met those demands and got the reward of our first trophy together.
“We know the importance of silverware throughout the history of this great club. We are so happy to bring the trophy back to Old Trafford but we are by no means satisfied and we will not stop here.
“Together we have experienced the feeling of what it means to win together for Manchester United. It is truly magnificent and will only make each of us hungrier for more success.
“This group has made great strides in the last few months but there is still a lot more to come. I can assure you that everyone at Carrington will be working constantly because we know that this club and you, our supporters, deserve more great days like this.
“We will go back to work today, with full focus now on preparing to face West Ham in the FA Cup on Wednesday evening. There will be no complacency in our desire to return this club back to where we want to be.
“Please know that you are vital to what we want to achieve and take yesterday as proof of what can happen when we are all United together. Thank you for your support and dedication, Erik ten Hag.”
United still have the chance to win four trophies this season, starting with their fifth round FA Cup game later this week, including being in the league title race.
The manager ‘forgot’ to take the Carabao Cup trophy with him after his press conference, showing just how much he wants to win more silverware.
