Erik ten Hag says he has “mixed feelings” about Scott McTominay’s departure from Man United.
Ten Hag was being interviewed by the media at the pre-match press conference for United’s home Premier League match against Liverpool on Sunday.
Asked about McTominay’s transfer to Napoli, Ten Hag replied:
“I am a little bit mixed. I am very happy for him but I would prefer not to lose him because he was so important for our team. He was here for 22 years. But unfortunately it is the rules. Academy players bring more value.
“He was so important for our team, he was at Manchester United for over 22 years. But unfortunately, it’s the rules. You have to discuss the rules to do sells and obviously homegrown players, academy players, bring more value. It’s not the right thing to do but for everyone, for all parts, it’s a good deal. For Scott, he is happy with it. Of course, for Napoli, a very good player but also for us.”
On another potential exit, Ten Hag was asked if he expected Jadon Sancho to still be a United player when the deadline passes this evening.
“As I know, yes,” he said.
“He is a player in our squad and we are happy with him. We need depth in the squad, we have to play many games til Jan. The new Europa League format, after the break we will play every third day and need options.”
The manager was then asked why Manuel Ugarte was such an important signing.
“We had three No.10s, we didn’t have any more holding midfielders, we had one. So that is the idea behind it,” he replied.
United showed footage of Rasmus Hojlund in training yesterday and this may have prompted reporters to ask Ten Hag when his striker will return to action.
“After the international break but when after the break? We will see how it develops during the break to get him match fit,” Ten Hag replied.
“It will take a while before he is up. He has to build some fitness.”
Ten Hag also called England legend Alan Shearer “stupid” for his analysis of Marcus Rashford in United’s previous game, more on that to follow.
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