Man United boss Erik Ten Hag reveals his stance on heavily-congested game schedule

Erik ten Hag has expressed his apprehension regarding the excessive workload that his players are expected to bear as Manchester United prepare to commence an extended Europa League campaign.

On Wednesday evening, United will play FC Twente at Old Trafford in the inaugural of eight group stage games. This is two more than the standard number of games due to modifications to the format implemented by UEFA.

Rodri, a midfielder for Manchester City, expressed concern about the possibility of players going on strike in protest prior to their Champions League match against Inter Milan last week. This occurred four days prior to his suspected ruptured ACL injury in City’s game against Arsenal.

Ten Hag also expressed grave concerns regarding the excessive amount of football played and advocated for a more equitable equilibrium between the commercial requirements of the sport and the players’ well-being.

“We have discussed it numerous times; it is evident that there are an excessive number of games and competitions,” he stated. ‘The football is adversely affected by the players’ excess. That may be advantageous for commercial purposes; however, there is a limit. Injuries are inevitable due to the high volume of activities that players participate in.

“As a club, you are unable to alter this; it is a matter of the entire industry.” It pertains to the necessity for clubs, players, managers, and numerous other stakeholders to collaborate in order to enhance the game and achieve the appropriate equilibrium.

“Ultimately, it is a financial matter.” We are professionals; revenues must be generated; however, we must maintain equilibrium.

Ten Hag considers the expansion of the Europa League to 32 teams to be an additional challenge in terms of winning, but he also sees it as a distinct opportunity to automatically qualify for the Champions League..

Additionally, he stated, “I believe so; it is an opportunity.” This is undoubtedly a road, and there are additional pathways to achieving the objectives you desire. It is likely the most challenging of the 32 tournaments; to succeed, one must be the greatest; however, it is a goal and a path we aspire to follow.

“It is certain that each match and goal are significant, and the initial step is to divide the first eight teams after January.” However, refrain from gazing too far ahead. As you are aware, our objective is to prevail in all competitions, and this is one of them.