Erik ten Hag has held “positive” talks with new co-owner Jim Ratcliffe regarding the way forward for Manchester United.
Ratcliffe’s deal to buy 25 per cent of United was confirmed on Christmas Eve and Ten Hag has spoken previously of his optimism that they will enjoy a productive working relationship.
Read our other sports news stories here:
Littler hoping to inspire children after remarkable run to world final
South Africa v India: Bumrah guides tourists home despite Markram heroics
Nadal continues winning return to reach last eight in Brisbane
And while talks between the pair were delayed due to the busy Christmas schedule, the Dutchman has now had the chance to sit down with Ratcliffe and discuss their long-term visions.
Speaking ahead of Monday’s FA Cup third-round clash at Wigan, Ten Hag said: “Very positive [talks], I have to say. We had a long meeting, so many hours we sit together, on many issues we were on the same page, very positive from both sides.
“I can say that it was a very constructive meeting and we’re looking forward to working with each other.”
Asked if fans can expect any noticeable changes in the short term, he added: “I think it’s very shortly [early] and also we have to let it settle down, they’re just coming in, introducing themselves.
“They have good ideas, we have to see what we can integrate. In togetherness we will work, but after one day you can’t tell that.
“They have given me a few [of their ideas], we have had our debates about strategies and I think we will come together.”
✍️ Erik has confirmed United have triggered one-year contract extensions for @AWBISSAKA, @HANNIBALMEJBRI and @VLINDELOF.
➡️ The boss has also revealed contract talks are being held with two more Reds.#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) JANUARY 4, 2024
Ten Hag confirmed one-year options on Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Victor Lindelof and Hannibal had been activated as expected while talks were ongoing regarding the futures of Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial, both of whom are out of contract at the end of the season.
On Martial and Varane, he added: “I think that is an internal discussion between the club and the players.”
Ten Hag was giving nothing away regarding Jadon Sancho’s future with the out-of-favour winger believed to be close to a loan move back to his previous club Borussia Dortmund.
“I can’t say anything about that,” he said. “We have to wait and see how things are going. When we have news, we will tell you.”
Goalkeeper Andre Onana will be available for the trip to Wigan despite his inclusion in the Cameroon squad for the African Cup of Nations, although it remains to be seen if he can play against Tottenham on January 14.
“We’re talking with the Cameroon federation, it was an issue during the talks with Andre when he came in here,” said Ten Hag. “It’s constructive. We will see. I don’t know yet [for Spurs] but he will be here for the game against Wigan.”
