Erik ten Hag eyeing talks with INEOS over Man Utd vision

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has insisted INEOS «want to work» with him going forward.

INEOS founder Sir Jim Ratcliffe is set to complete a minority takeover of the Red Devils once his 25% share purchase is formally approved and many fans have speculated as to whether the new controlling group would look to dismiss Ten Hag and begin a new project in their image.

While Ten Hag is yet to speak with Ratcliffe and INEOS, he insisted he has already received their full backing.

«The schedule is so condensed, I didn't have the time so far to speak with them but it will come,» Ten Hag told Friday's press conference. «I look forward [to talks].

»They want to work with me, I want to work with them, we will have the conversations, the meetings. We will see.

«I'm focused on the game so far, so I said no [to talks]. In this moment I don't want to have distractions. In the coming days, weeks, there will be time for us, then I'll know more.

»I think it's a good thing, it's very positive. We are looking really forward to work together. INEOS wants to work with me in this structure and I want to work with them.

«We always want to win, it doesn't matter who is the leader. We are appointed here in this area, we need a winning culture no matter who is in the lead, no matter who is the owner. But, of course, owners can inspire you.»

Ten Hag will have made a good impression on INEOS sporting director Sir Dave Brailsford, who was in attendance for the dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Aston Villa and is expected to be appointed to the new-look United board.

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