Erik ten Hag details 'very positive' first meeting with Sir Jim Ratcliffe

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has described an early meeting with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s new contingent as «very positive» and «constructive» following the billionaire's 25% buy-in.

Through his INEOS firm, Ratcliffe has become a minority investor at Old Trafford but will also take over sporting operations as part of his deal with the Glazer family, who remain majority owners.

Sir Dave Brailsford, director of sport for INEOS and the man who masterminded the success of British Cycling and later Team Sky (now the INEOS Grenadiers), is set to play an active role.

The deal, although in the pipeline for several months, was only announced on Christmas Eve. But, already, work is getting started as introductions are made.

«Very positive, I have to say,» Ten Hag said on Thursday of his first meeting.

«We had a long meeting, so many hours we sit together. On many issues we were on the same page, very positive from both sides. I can say that it was a very constructive meeting and we're looking forward to working with each other.»

The United boss, whose team has struggled to deliver consistent results so far this season despite a promising 2022/23 campaign, appears optimistic about what is to come but is urging early patience.

«We have to let it settle down,» he said. «They have just come in and are introducing themselves. They have good ideas. We have to see what we can integrate. We have to work. They have given me a few [ideas]. We have our debates. I think we will come together.»

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