Rio Ferdinand Presents Rio: “I can’t see an Erik Ten Hag Plan”
Sep 30, 2024
Rio Ferdinand is joined by Joleon Lescott, an England coach and former professional footballer, to dissect the identity crisis at Manchester United under Erik Ten Hag. They debate the pressing issues affecting the squad’s performance and compare it to Mikel Arteta’s early days at Arsenal. Joleon shares his excitement for young talent Curtis Jones and discusses the rising stars in English football, including Bukayo Saka and Phil Foden, igniting a lively conversation about who holds the title of the best young attacker.
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United Lack A Clear Playing Identity
- Rio warns Manchester United lack a clear, consistent playing identity under Erik ten Hag despite occasional good games.
- He argues ownership (Ineos) expects a style but the manager hasn't delivered sustained implementation.
Great Coaches Enforce One Identity
- Jolyon Lescott highlights top coaches create a recognisable, consistent team identity regardless of personnel changes.
- He uses recent managers as examples who coach a specific way and maintain it across squads.
Use Praise To Unlock Players
- Lescott recommends managers balance approachability with clear standards to get buy-in from modern players.
- He says praise and personal acknowledgement unlock better performances from individuals.