Erik ten Hag explains why Manchester United signed Wout Weghorst on loan
Erik ten Hag has explained why Manchester United have signed Wout Weghorst on loan.
The move came as a surprise to many – especially after the forward’s disappointing stint in England with Burnley.
However, the United head coach has said he has ‘followed [Weghorst] through the leagues’ which is why he has taken the plunge on the signing.
Speaking before the Manchester derby, Ten Hag explained why he signed the striker: ‘He is adding a type of striker we don’t have in this moment and I’ve known him for a long time and I’ve followed him through the leagues.’
Ten Hag continued: ‘He’s a goalscorer definitely but also a type who will work for the team, who is a really good pressing player in defending, so he can contribute [there] as well.’
The 52-year-old coach then added that he thinks Weghorst will surprise people with some of his attributes.
The United boss added: ‘He’s a box player who can also play counter-attack, you won’t expect it always when you see his profile but he’s a really good counter player. I’ve seen many goals, especially in the Bundesliga where they play a lot of counter there, and he was really effective.’
Ten Hag then continued that the Holland striker was not just added to the squad for his footballing ability.
According to the United boss, Weghorst will add a winning mentality to the changing room.
Ten Hag said: ‘I never only look at a player and his technical skills, I look at the personality so the total human being and I think he will contribute extra to that winning attitude.’
Weghorst will have to wait to make his United debut but will be looking to hit the ground running.
United fans will be hoping the striker can contribute well to the side’s race for a Champions League spot.
