Erik ten Hag reveals what he discussed with Sir Alex Ferguson at meal ahead of Man United vs Barcelona

Erik ten Hag was pictured having a meal with Sir Alex Ferguson on Tuesday evening ahead of Manchester United’s second-leg tie against Barcelona in the Europa League.

The United boss has been having a wonderful first season in charge at Old Trafford and could be the one to finally end the six-year trophy drought at the club.

Before the Carabao Cup final, though, comes an all-important clash against the La Liga giants. A Champions League game in all but name as the two teams find themselves in a similar stage of their respective rebuilds.

Ahead of this huge week for Ten Hag, he was able to meet with the best man to talk to about important weeks for Manchester United. Sir Alex Ferguson and the new United manager shared a meal and a glass of red wine as Ten Hag was able to pick the brain of the legendary Scotsman.

“It is massive (to have his support),” replied Ten Hag when asked about the meal with the former boss, “I enjoy speaking with people with massive knowledge and experience.

“He wants to share it, he wants to help and support. Manchester United is his club and he feels so committed.

“He wants us to be doing well. It was a great night.”

Sir Alex was thwarted by Barcelona in the Champions League twice towards the end of his managerial career but would have been able to give the Dutch manager some valuable advice ahead of the game.

The 81-year-old has always been a regular at Old Trafford and it’s great to see him enjoying himself this season, even attending some away fixtures throughout the campaign.

Speaking ahead of the fixture, Ten Hag is not focused on getting credit from those in the media for United’s performances but instead wants to back it up with silverware.

It’s not about credit, it’s about trophies,” he answered. “We have to keep in the same mindset, every day we want to give a better version of ourselves.

“Tomorrow we have to give the best performance of the season, we believe in it.”