Man Utd assistant who left after working with Erik ten Hag explains exactly what players used to tell him and it speaks volumes as he reveals who they learnt it from

Rene Hake, who briefly served as Erik ten Hag’s assistant at Manchester United between July and November 2024, has opened up about his experiences at Old Trafford. Reflecting on his short stint, Hake shared insights into player interactions, squad challenges, and his shared vision with Ten Hag.

Hake’s football philosophy aligns closely with Ten Hag’s, prioritizing a balance between attacking creativity and defensive stability. Both honed their coaching principles at FC Twente’s academy, embracing the foundational ideas of ‘total football.’ At United, this philosophy aimed to foster a cohesive system where every player contributed equally in attack and defense. Despite their efforts, the team struggled to fully implement this approach during the latter stages of Ten Hag’s tenure. A vulnerable midfield often left the defense exposed, creating persistent issues that tactical adjustments couldn’t entirely resolve.

When discussing his interactions with the players, Hake revealed mixed reactions to his coaching methods. Some players, like Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho, were eager to enhance their skills and quickly embraced guidance on improving their timing for deep runs. Bruno Fernandes also showed a willingness to engage in discussions about his positioning during the build-up play. However, not all players were receptive. Hake noted that some resisted change, with a few openly expressing their preference to maintain their current style of play—a stance he respected.

One standout player during Hake’s tenure was Casemiro. The Brazilian midfielder earned praise for his exceptional football intelligence and mental resilience. Hake described him as a player with sharp instincts and an unwavering determination to perfect his craft, even after multiple attempts. Casemiro’s ability to anticipate and read the game was another trait that left a strong impression on Hake, who remarked on the midfielder’s almost intuitive sense of impending plays on the field.

Following Ruben Amorim’s appointment as United’s manager in November 2024, Hake left his role at the club. While his next move remains uncertain, speculation persists about a potential reunion with Ten Hag at another club. With previous managerial roles at Go Ahead Eagles, Cambuur, and Utrecht, Hake’s extensive experience suggests he could return to a head coaching position.

Despite the brevity of his time at Manchester United, Hake’s reflections offer a glimpse into the complexities of implementing a unified vision within a diverse squad. Whether he chooses to resume his career as an assistant or as a head coach, his journey will undoubtedly remain a point of interest.