Man Utd players can't take criticism and feel being direct is 'offensive' says Ten Hag

Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag believes modern footballers struggle to handle criticism compared to previous generations. The 55-year-old Dutchman, who was sacked in October—just three months after signing a new two-year contract—claims today’s players lack the resilience of those who came before them.

Speaking to SEG Stories, a media outlet linked to his management agency, Ten Hag said: “This generation usually finds it difficult to deal with criticism. It really gets to them. The generation I grew up in had much thicker skin—you could be much more direct.

“I was approached much more directly. But if I did that with my current group of players, I would demotivate them. They find it offensive.”

Ten Hag’s time at United was marked by internal disputes, despite winning both the FA Cup and League Cup during his two full seasons. Last season, United endured their worst-ever Premier League finish, placing eighth.

During his first season, Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract was terminated after he publicly criticized Ten Hag in an interview with Piers Morgan.

Jadon Sancho was exiled from the first team for accusing the Dutchman of making him a “scapegoat,” while Marcus Rashford was disciplined for an unauthorized trip to Belfast.

Former United defender Raphael Varane recently expressed surprise that the club extended Ten Hag’s contract, claiming his relationship with the squad had deteriorated. However, Ten Hag was credited with developing young talents like Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.

Ten Hag acknowledged that coaching methods must adapt to modern players, emphasizing the need for a more supportive approach.

“With this generation, you choose different words and a different approach. Sir Alex Ferguson belonged to a previous generation, where you could be much more direct. But if you approach today’s players like that, they feel ridiculed.”

Despite his dismissal, Ten Hag remains appreciative of United fans and their unwavering support.

“What makes Manchester United fans special is that they stand by the team even in setbacks. I was always appreciated and felt that when I walked the streets of Manchester.”

Ten Hag confirmed he will not take a new managerial job until next season.