By Joshua Browne
A familiar face is set to be at Erik ten Hag's side from next season.
Rene Hake, who previously collaborated with Ten Hag in the Netherlands, is poised to bring his expertise to Old Trafford, joining Manchester United's backroom staff.
The move underlines a clear commitment to enhancing United's performances, drawing on some shared experiences to tackle the challenges and ambitions of top-tier English football.
Here's all you need to know on the Dutchman.
Career so far
Hake, born on 18 December 1971, in Coevorden, Netherlands, has steadily built his reputation in Dutch football management. Starting with youth coaching roles at FC Emmen and FC Twente, he established himself as a developer of young talent, which paved the way for his appointment as Twente's head coach in 2015. Despite the club's financial troubles, Hake's strategic acumen helped stabilise the team during a challenging period.
In 2018, Hake took charge of SC Cambuur, demonstrating his adaptability by leading the side to respectable performances in the Eerste Divisie. Following his time with the Yellow-Blues, Hake took the reins of FC Utrecht's reserve team before being promoted to head coach of the first team in 2020.
Hake was appointed manager of Eredivisie outfit Go Ahead Eagles in May 2022. Under his leadership, the team has shown disciplined defensive structures and a strong team ethic. With 12 wins, 10 draws, and 12 losses, Go Ahead Eagles placed ninth in the 2023/24 season - their highest league finish in over 15 years.
Tactics
Hake's tactical approach can be characterised by a balanced focus on both defence and offence, as well as the integration of young players into his teams.
Hake often employs a 4-3-3 formation, which provides a solid defensive base while allowing flexibility in attack. His emphasis on team cohesion ensures that all players contribute to defensive duties, making his teams difficult to break down.
He enjoys using the width of the pitch to stretch the opposition, creating opportunities through crosses and quick interchanges on the flanks. This approach not only utilises the strengths of his wingers but also ensures that his teams can capitalise on counter-attacking opportunities, catching opponents off guard during transitions.
Finally, Hake's background in youth coaching is evident in his tactical setups. He is skilled at integrating young players into his teams, ensuring they understand and execute their roles effectively.
Relationship with Erik ten Hag
Hake and Erik ten Hag's shared vision and philosophies make them a promising duo at Old Trafford.
Both started their coaching careers in the youth departments at Twente, where they developed similar tactical principles focused on compact structures and involving all players in both attack and defence.
Despite taking different career paths after their Twente days, Ten Hag and Hake maintained their connection, exchanging ideas and insights aplenty.
Buyout clause
United must cough up some money to secure Rene Hake's services.
It has been reported that the Red Devils have to pay a release clause in Hake's contract with Go Ahead Eagles, which the 52-year-old renewed in October.
The cost to United will be 'a few hundred thousand euros', a relatively insignificant fee which will undoubtedly be much appreciated by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
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This article was originally published on 90min.com as Who is Rene Hake? Relationship with Erik ten Hag, tactical style & more.
