Erik ten Hag Reflects on New Europa League Format and FC Twente Reunion

Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, has expressed his perspective on the new format of the Europa League, emphasizing the significance of every goal in the tournament. Previously organized into groups of four, the competition has been revamped to feature a single league of 36 teams, who will each contest in eight games to vie for advancement to the knockout stages.

In an exclusive Q&A session with the club’s media, ten Hag discussed his thoughts on facing FC Twente, a team he once played for and coached. The manager highlighted the personal significance of this matchup, stating, “We very much welcome them, of course, FC Twente… but we have to win. Manchester United, that is what I represent, but also I feel part of this club. And now I have to beat my former big love.”

Ten Hag, who played 234 times for FC Twente, acknowledged his enduring affection for his former club and the region, while reaffirming his commitment to Manchester United’s success. He remarked, “Indeed, you have to get away from the love you feel for the region and the club where you feel connected with. But I have to do my job and we have to win.”

Discussing FC Twente’s current form, ten Hag commended their collective spirit and strategy under their current management, acknowledging their strong performance, including a recent 5-0 league victory. Nonetheless, he expressed confidence in Manchester United’s ability to develop a game plan capable of overcoming Twente.

Addressing the new Europa League format, ten Hag noted that “every game is significant and every goal is significant,” stressing the importance of starting the league campaign with a victory, especially with eight games ahead. He anticipated Manchester United’s first impressions of the format, having observed similar changes in the Champions League.

Regarding team preparations, ten Hag indicated there would likely be no changes from the squad that played last weekend. The manager praised the team’s defensive efforts, having secured three consecutive clean sheets, and reiterated the need for improvement in taking scoring opportunities.

Finally, reflecting on Noussair Mazraoui‘s recent performance, ten Hag lauded the player’s development since his time at Ajax, describing his growth in Germany as “tremendous and impressive.” Mazraoui is familiar with FC Twente, adding an intriguing element to the upcoming clash.