René Hake reveals what Erik ten Hag told him about his Manchester United role

Manchester United are set to appoint Go Ahead Eagles manager René Hake to their new coaching staff in a major overhaul at Old Trafford.

Erik ten Hag‘s coaching staff at Old Trafford is undergoing radical changes as part of the new Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS-led era. The Dutch manager had had his current contract with Manchester United extended until 2026, and Go Ahead Eagles manager René Hake is set to be added to his backroom staff.

Hake has a similar path to Ten Hag so far, with both managers having worked at Twente FC, Go Ahead Eagles, and FC Utrecht at points in their respective careers.

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Although Hake is seemingly taking a step down in terms of position, dropping from a managerial role to a coaching fit, he has explained that he could not turn down the opportunity to work at United.

“The feeling I have is difficult to describe, but this is, of course, a great opportunity for me,” he said via Soccer News.

“Working in the biggest league in the world, at one of the biggest clubs in the world. It is also a wonderful reward for me. The fact that I can go to the top of the world from Go Ahead Eagles is unique.”

Further, Hake went on to explain that he has spoken with Ten Hag, and the two have clarified and agreed on his “tasks”—although he did not go as far as revealing what these will be.

“Of course, I am grateful to Erik for this opportunity, but it is not about us knowing each other well. We just have to do good work. Erik has a role in mind for me, we discussed that. As in any staff, all tasks are divided among the assistants.”

Hake will be joined by former United striker and club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy, who will also join Ten Hag’s backroom staff as part of his new-look Old Trafford coaching team.

Benni McCarthy, forwards coach, has left his role at Carrington following the expiry of his contract at the end of June. There has been no news on the futures of Ten Hag’s current assistant managers, Mitchell van der Gaag and Steve McClaren.

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