Erik ten Hag outlines short-term and long-term vision for Man Utd

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has detailed what he expects of his new squad after officially taking over as the club's new manager.

The Red Devils confirmed back in April that Ten Hag would be their next permanent manager once the 2021/22 season ended, with the Dutchman flying into England last week to get a head start on some of his duties after Ajax's campaign ended.

Speaking for the first time as United coach to the club's official website, Ten Hag said he is excited to get going and insists he wants to make the fans proud by playing attacking and winning football.

"I would say the word 'exciting' to go into [this job]. I really look forward to doing this job at this club with massive history and we want to restore it, where it belongs," Ten Hag said.

"I think many [things excite him about this opportunity]. First of all, we want to make the fans proud. Second, of course we are in this moment [where] the current situation is obviously not that good. It's a big challenge. I want to build and construct a team that is battling for each other, who are unified and will get results.

"Also, we are playing in the 'Theatre of Dreams', we want to entertain. But in the end, the intention is to play fantastic football. If we can't play fantastic football, we still have to win."

Ten Hag was then asked what his long-term vision was for Man Utd, and revealed that the first point of call is for the club to get a reality check on their current standing.

He added: "It's first to accept the current situation but also know one year ago this club, this team, was second in the Premier League, so there's potential. Now it's up to us to get it out. It's a process, it will take time, but I'm convinced we will come to that point where we get success. We have to work hard, it has to be based on the right philosophy and strategy."

In the short-term, Ten Hag is looking forward to seeing his new crop of players up close.

"First, we have a break! Then we will start pre-season on 27 June, and then I will get a view of the squad, the individual players of the squad. Of course we want to in certain positions renew the squad, but I'm looking forward," he said.

"I think, as I said, one year ago, this squad was second in the league, so there is potential. I'm really looking forward to co-operating with the squad."