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"He was incredibly driven, ambitious" - Ten Hag's old comments on manager linked with coaching role at Manchester United resurface

Manchester United are reportedly set to add Eredivisie side Go Ahead Eagles' manager Rene Hake to their coaching staff as part of their backroom shuffle, and the manager is highly regarded by Erik ten Hag. Having come under the control of the INEOS group, changes are afoot at Old Trafford, including significant ones in the dugout.

The Sir Jim Ratcliffe-led board carried out a review of the manager's position at the end of the 2023-24 season, which saw them win the FA Cup. The club decided to keep Ten Hag and extend his contract, which is due to expire next year. They have also seemingly decided to pursue new assistant managers to work with the former Ajax boss at Old Trafford.

Reports from the Netherlands indicate that Manchester United have a contract offer in place for Go Ahead Eagles manager Hake. Erik ten Hag crossed paths with the Dutchman during his time as FC Twente boss, when Hake was in charge of the academy.

Ten Hag spoke about Hake to Voetbal International in 2023, where he extolled the virtues of the Go Ahead Eagles boss. He praised Hake's methodical nature and ambitiousness, as well as his confidence in his abilities as a manager. Ten Hag said (via Mirror):

"After our common period at Twente, we have always kept in touch."
"We meet up and call each other. You talk about private matters, how things are going at home and with the children. But usually it is about football. (At Twente) he was incredibly driven, ambitious, but also extremely convinced of himself. A trainer who worked very methodically."

Rene Hake led Go Ahead Eagles into the UEFA Europa Conference League, but will not manage in the competition if he makes the switch to Old Trafford as Ten Hag's assistant.

Alongside Hake, Manchester United are also looking to hire club legend and former PSV Eindhoven manager Ruud van Nistelrooy to work under Ten Hag. They will be tasked with steering the team to challenge for the top spots in the Premier League after a dismal eighth-place finish.

Manchester United approach French champions for midfielder - Reports

Manchester United have reportedly initiated contact with PSG over the transfer of defensive midfielder Manuel Ugarte. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Red Devils have genuine interest in the Uruguayan, who could leave PSG this summer.

Ugarte joined Luis Enrique's side from Sporting Lisbon last summer after a lengthy transfer battle with Chelsea, but has failed to light up French football. The 23-year-old made 25 league appearances and was left out for the side's biggest games as he struggled for form.

Manchester United are keen to sign a replacement for the ageing Casemiro and appreciate the quality of the Uruguay international. Ugarte is currently on international duty at the Copa America, and the Red Devils will scout him further there.

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