“Shut your mouth, Erik Ten Hag!” – Regarding Maguire, New Manchester United Boss Criticized by Liverpool Legend

The season hasn’t even started yet, Ten Hag has come under fire for the way he handled the press conference after the pre-season game against Liverpool

The former Liverpool player criticized Erik ten Hag for being too “naive” and asked him to “shut up” after revealing Harry Maguire remains captain at a news conference.

Ten Hag entrusted as new permanent manager The Red Devils this summer, and tackled his first game, Tuesday (12/7), when his team thrashed Liverpool 4-0 in a pre-season friendly.

However, ex-Liverpool Steve Nicol was disappointed to see Ten Hag naively give news regarding Maguire’s fate at the pre-match press conference.

What did Ten Hag say about Maguire?

Maguire’s future at Old Trafford is in doubt after a disastrous 2021/22 season, with his form and leadership in question.

This has led to speculation that the England defender will no longer be trusted as captain. Several senior names were suggested to replace him, namely David de Gea and Bruno Fernandes.

In fact, if Cristiano Ronaldo had not left, the Portuguese superstar was considered more worthy to become United’s squad leader.

However, in a press conference for United’s pre-season tour in Thailand, the Dutch tactician confirmed Maguire would still serve as team captain.

Said Ten Hag: “Harry Maguire is the captain. He’s an established captain, has had a lot of success, so I have no doubts about this matter.”

What did Nicol say about Ten Hag’s comments about Maguire?

“As a coach, sitting at the press conference, don’t answer everyone’s questions. Don’t,” Nicol told ESPN FC.

“Just tell them what you want them to know. Don’t answer too many questions. Don’t be open and honest.”

“He’s being a bit naive here, answering questions like that, openly and honestly. He has no obligation to tell them anything.”

“Keep your secrets tight, don’t tell them anything. Have a proper press conference then move on.”