What Erik ten Hag told Man Utd players at Carrington after Champions League exit

Erik ten Hag swiftly rallied his Manchester United team after the recent setback in the Champions League, urging them to refocus on upcoming challenges.

The slim hopes of advancing to the knockout stages were dashed, and the team finished fourth in the group.

The manager addressed the squad at Carrington, emphasizing the importance of aiming for a top-four finish in the league.

During the first training session following the Champions League defeat, ten Hag stressed the potential for rapid changes in the league standings and encouraged the players to target the highest possible finish.

The message conveyed was that despite recent challenges, the league remains a significant objective with ample games left to make an impact.

This season has been marked by chaos for Manchester United, characterized by a demanding schedule, numerous injuries, and unfavorable results, amid the backdrop of a prolonged takeover saga.

The exit from Europe will ease the team’s schedule in 2024, providing an opportunity to set clear objectives.

Upcoming league fixtures against West Ham, Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, and Tottenham Hotspur offer a crucial chance to start securing wins.

While the top-four battle may not be as exhilarating as Champions League pursuits, the players aim to redeem themselves after the disappointing campaign.

Looking ahead to 2024, the revamped Champions League format presents an enticing prospect, and Manchester United aims to be a part of it, considering the improved prize money at stake.

The draw against Liverpool over the weekend provides an opportunity for the team to reset, calm the situation, and move past the woeful result from the previous year. The focus now is on progressing forward rather than backward.