Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been working as a pundit for Dutch television during the Euros.
Erik ten Hag has been enjoying working as a pundit during Euro 2024 after his Manchester United future was confirmed.
Ten Hag discussed his own situation, praised Serbia star Dusan Tadic, and even found time to praise former Manchester United loanee Wout Weghorst.
Another player the manager became involved in discussion over was Paris Saint-Germain owned star Xavi Simons, who spent last season on loan at RB Leipzig.
Erik ten Hag defends Xavi Simons from criticism
Xavi Simons started for the Netherlands in their Euro 2024 opening game against Poland, a 2-1 win. He began on the right side of attack, with Tijani Reijnders playing behind striker Cody Gakpo.
Simons’ performance was criticised in studio by Dutch legend Marco van Basten, who told Voetbal Zone: “I didn’t like him, I actually thought he was a bit disappointing.”
Erik ten Hag expressed some sympathy, pointing out that Simons was being played away from his best position, and thought he offered some positives.
He explained: “He really plays in the 10 position there and that is where his strength really lies. I didn’t find him that disappointing.
“He didn’t play very well, but I think he had good positions. A number of good actions, It wasn’t always easy to get the ball.
“He certainly had his good moments.”
He did admit that it would not be a surprise if the Dutch decide to select Jeremie Frimpong in the next game at the position.
Manchester United do admire Xavi Simons
Fabrizio Romano reported last summer that Manchester United expressed interest in Xavi Simons, but Paris Saint-Germain held the advantage as they decided to activate their buy-back clause.
Simons, 21, scored 10 goals and provided 13 assists for RB Leipzig on loan last season.
HITC report PSG are interested in letting Simons leave on loan again next season, without an option to buy, claiming Manchester United would be interested in this arrangement.
Ten Hag’s admiration for Simons explains United’s interest – but he will not be dictating transfer policy this summer, with Ineos taking a more firm-handed approach to the window.