Ten Hag anticipates Europa League clash with Mourinho

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is eagerly looking forward to this week’s Europa League encounter with Fenerbahce, where he will face off against former United boss Jose Mourinho.

Speaking ahead of the match, Ten Hag praised Mourinho, calling him “an example for many, many managers.”

Mourinho, who took charge of Fenerbahce in June after being sacked by Roma, remains one of the most decorated managers in football history.

During his tenure at Manchester United from 2016 to 2018, he won the League Cup and the Europa League, despite his time at the club being marked by mixed opinions among fans.

United travel to Istanbul under pressure, having drawn their first two Europa League matches this season.

However, Ten Hag is looking forward to the challenge of facing Mourinho, whom he respects greatly.

“It’s a big game for both of us,” Ten Hag said during the Football Writers’ Association Northern Managers Awards dinner on Sunday.

“I really enjoy facing him and playing against him.

He has always good teams, he is a winner — he has won so many trophies. I think he is an example for many, many managers.”

Hag is also under scrutiny after a difficult start to the season.

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United are currently 11th in the Premier League, with only three wins in eight games.

Despite the pressure, Ten Hag remains focused on the present and determined to turn things around.

“You have to live for now,” he said. “What happened is in the past.

You have to prove yourself every day and every season.

Our target is to win a trophy again.”

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United gained some relief last weekend with a dramatic 2-1 win over Brentford, where Rasmus Hojlund scored the winner.

Hojlund, who had been dealing with injuries, is now nearing full fitness, and Ten Hag believes the 21-year-old striker will continue to improve.

“He will always score,” Ten Hag said. “What is important is that he stays fit. When he stays fit, he will score goals, as his stats prove.”

United’s clash with Fenerbahce promises to be a high-stakes match, with both Ten Hag and Mourinho aiming for a crucial victory.