"A new approach..." Ten Hag on Man United's latest staff addition, gives big clue

Manchester United’s new coaching setup is finally in place as they began their pre-season with a fixture in Norway against Rosenborg.

After the confirmation of Ruud van Nistelrooij and Rene Hake’s arrival, new goalkeeping coach Jelle ten Rouwelaar’s arrival has been confirmed.

The trio has already started working in an official capacity at the club, traveling to Norway for the game.

Rouwelaar will return to Carrington after the game to start working with Andre Onana as they await the return of Tom Heaton and Altay Bayindir from their extended leave after the Euros.

Meanwhile, Erik ten Hag has shared his thoughts on the newest staff addition and his comments will leave fans plenty excited…

Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images

Erik ten Hag of Jelle ten Rouwelaar’s signing

Jelle ten Rouwelaar comes from Burnley, where he worked with Vincent Kompany as he sought to transform the style to a more progressive and possession-based one.

Ten Hag has repeatedly stressed that his preferred style of play includes playing out from the back but personnel and injuries haven’t allowed him to do so.

Rouwelaar comes with a lot of expectations and Ten Hag’s comments on his arrival won’t do anything to dampen that excitement.

The manager hailed his “innovation” in goalkeeping, talking about a “new approach” which is “very interesting” in a talk with Manchester United’s official website.

He also gave a clue about United’s playing style which could be set to finally change and move towards his preference since the beginning. The aim to make the goalkeeper the part of a collective, almost as an extra outfielder, was stressed.

He said: “Jelle is experienced with English football and he has some great innovations in goalkeeping, a new approach and it’s very interesting.

“I’m convinced he will really help our game, as a team, but especially the keepers, as a squad, as a team, their position in the team and how they’re aligned with the rest of the team and playing as a collective.”

A new dynamic

Ineos and Ten Hag have clearly worked together to arrive at a conclusion where the manager was given a new contract but changes are afoot in his staff.

Ruud van Nistelrooij will bring a soft touch along with his gravitas as a club legend, while Hake comes off performing a miracle with Go Ahead Eagles.

Mitchell van der Gaag was sometimes reported as a figure too similar to Ten Hag in his tactical approach and man-management style.

The lack of variety can often make the dressing room feel dour and one-dimensional, something Sir Alex Ferguson avoided by regularly refreshing his staff.

United would hope they have embarked upon a similar path with Ten Hag and his staff. Jelle ten Rouwelaar rounds it up nicely.