Erik ten Hag gives honest verdict on Jose Mourinho and Manchester United after Brentford win

Erik ten Hag emphasised that Manchester United are “going in the right direction” during an event following their 2-1 victory over Brentford in the Premier League.

During the international break, Sir Jim Ratcliffe met with United’s new football structure in London, where discussions about Ten Hag’s future took place after the club’s worst start in Premier League history.

Despite the speculation, Ten Hag guided the team to a crucial win against Brentford on Saturday, with second-half goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund.

Brentford initially took a 1-0 lead just before half-time at Old Trafford, but United displayed resilience, completing their comeback shortly after the hour mark.

The victory moved United up to 11th in the table, leaving them six points adrift of the Champions League qualification spots.

Erik ten Hag faced criticism for claiming that United were heading in the right direction after their goalless draw with Aston Villa, but he reaffirmed that sentiment during a speech at the Football Writers’ Association dinner.

He expressed his conviction that the club is making progress.

“We have not made a good start and we know that,” said Ten Hag.

“We are not happy.

“But we are happy with the win, with the comeback, but it’s just one game and if you want to win trophies, you need good performances and you need a hard job throughout the season.

“But trophies, you will not [win] trophies in autumn or in winter.

“Not even in spring, you win trophies in April and May.

“It’s a journey and we have a long way to go.

“We really believe we are going in the right direction and I would say to all the writers, let’s be patient throughout the season because we will see how we end.

“We are quite convinced.”

Ten Hag also spoke to Sky Sports and discussed facing Fenerbahce, managed by the charismatic former United boss, Jose Mourinho, in the Europa League on Thursday.

“It’s a big game for both of us,” he said.

“I will enjoy facing him and playing against him.

“He was always at good teams, he is a winner and he’s won so many trophies.

“He’s an example for many managers.”

Hojlund scored the match-winning goal against Brentford at the weekend with a brilliant chip, and Ten Hag backed him to continue finding the net this season

“He [Hojlund] picked up so many injuries in his first season and when he stays fit, he will score goals because that proves his stats,” he added.

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