‘Top of the world’ - Imminent Man Utd arrival confirms major Erik ten Hag plans

Rene Hake has described his imminent move to Manchester United as going to the ‘top of the world’.

The Dutchman is set to take up a role in Erik ten Hag’s new coaching set up for the 2024/25 season, with ex-United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy also expected to instated at Old Trafford.

Hake, who has been in charge of Eredivisie side Go Ahead Eagles for two years, has reportedly already said his goodbyes at the Deventer club and is preparing for his new venture in the Premier League.

“The feeling I have is difficult to describe, but this is of course a great opportunity for me,” 52-year-old told Dutch outlet Voetbal International. “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.

“Of course I am grateful to Erik for this opportunity, but it is not about us knowing each other well,” he added. 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, like Ten Hag, has previously managed Utrecht as well as Go Ahead Eagles, while both also have ties to Twente and know each other from working together in the latter’s youth system.

The arrivals of Hake and Van Nistelrooy have put the futures of Ten Hag’s current assistants Steve McClaren and Mitchell van der Gaag into doubt, while Benni McCarthy’s contract has already expired.

Meanwhile, Ten Hag has agreed a contract extension with United. The ex-Ajax boss had been in talks about signing a new deal on fresh terms, but instead the additional one-year option was exercised. It means Ten Hag’s current contract expires in June 2026.