‘Manchester United is his club’ - Erik ten Hag reveals what Sir Alex Ferguson said as pair pictured together

Erik ten Hag said he had a ‘great night’ with Sir Alex Ferguson on Tuesday, with the pair pictured enjoying dinner together.

A photo of the current and former Manchester United managers appeared on social media two days before the club’s Europa League play-off against Barcelona, with the scores perfectly poised at 2-2 ahead of the second leg at Old Trafford.

Speaking before the clash with the current La Liga leaders, Ten Hag was asked about his meal with Ferguson and how valuable it is to draw off the experience of one of the greatest-ever managers ahead of such a huge European tie. “It is massive,” he replied. “I always enjoyed speaking to people who have a lot of knowledge and experience.

“He wants to share it, he wants to help and support. You feel Manchester United is his club. He feels so committed and he wants to see them do well. It was a great night and I look forward to the next night with him.”

Ten Hag was also asked in his pre-match press conference if Thursday’s match will be his biggest since he was manager of Ajax and faced a Champions League semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur in 2019.

“For me, the next game is always the biggest game,” said the Dutchman. “To go back but, I’m not the one, the type who looks back, I look forward. I’m excited about tomorrow. Two great teams facing each other at Old Trafford, a massive atmosphere, a great ambience, it’s the best you can get.”