Billionaires press: Erik ten Hag becomes a link to Premier clubs
This week Erik ten Hag was back in the spotlight, this time because he spoke candidly in an interview with The Athletic about his turbulent period at Manchester United, while he, as technical director of FC Twente, already expects phone calls from England.
Interview with The Athletic reveals promises
Erik ten Hag's name surfaced frequently in the English press this week; the reason was an extensive conversation with The Athletic about his time at the helm of Manchester United. At The Red Devils things are currently even worse than under the Dutchman and his successor Rubén Amorim. Ten Hag indicated that he signed for United with numerous promises that ultimately were not fulfilled.
He also spoke about Cristiano Ronaldo, of whom he held no respect, but nevertheless emphasized positive feelings about his period. “I still feel enormously connected to the club. The fans have always treated me with respect,” he said. This statement underscored his lasting bond with Manchester United.
In his current role as technical director of FC Twente, Ten Hag can soon expect a huge number of phone calls from England, according to TEAMtalk. The British website reported that several Premier‑League‑clubs have already knocked on the door for the young defender Ruud Nijstad.
Premier‑League‑clubs chase Ruud Nijstad
Sources to TEAMtalk reported that Manchester City, Manchester United, Brentford, Aston Villa, Newcastle United, Everton and Sunderland have shown interest. The Dutch club, however, is not considering a transfer in the January window. Ten Hag can play a major role in shaping Nijstad's career and will together with the defender decide what is best.
The Premier League is in any case waiting for the left‑footed player, who has already attracted interest from FC Barcelona. With interest from several top clubs, Ten Hag could be high up in the tree for Nijstad. With the billionaires circling him, a potential record transfer is expected.
For FC Twente a new record transfer appears to be looming, after Mats Rots left for Hoffenheim this summer. Interest from English clubs could enable the club to receive a sizable sum of money for Nijstad.
With the growing attention from the Premier League and the financial possibilities that Ten Hag can attract, FC Twente stands at a crossroads that could determine the future of both the club and the talent.