Luke Shaw Shared 5 Key Insights into Ten Hag's Transformation Strategy at United

During Erik ten Hag’s early tenure at Manchester United, his transformational leadership reshaped the club’s defensive approach.

Luke Shaw, initially dropped from the starting lineup after underperforming in the season’s opening games, reflected on how the fierce competition for spots reignited his determination.

Meanwhile, the arrival of Lisandro Martinez injected fresh aggression and tactical prowess into United’s backline, earning widespread praise.

Together, Shaw’s resurgence and Martinez’s immediate impact marked a new era for Manchester United’s defense under Ten Hag’s no-nonsense philosophy.

5 Key Insights into Erik Ten Hag’s Transformation Strategy at Manchester United

Looking back at Erik ten Hag’s tenure at Manchester United, it’s evident that his firm approach to handling underperforming players marked a turning point for the team.

Early in his management, Ten Hag was quick to bench players not meeting his standards.

1. Ten Hag’s Early Impact

Luke Shaw was one such player, sidelined after some disappointing performances at the start of that season.

His position was taken by Tyrell Malacia, a Dutch full-back who had just joined the club.

Despite this setback, Shaw didn’t fade away. Instead, he worked hard to regain his spot, which he eventually did after showing consistency in training.

Shaw was brought back into the lineup for key matches, such as United’s draw with Newcastle.

2. Ten Hag’s Leadership Philosopy Impact

Reflecting on his journey during that period, Shaw credited Erik’s tough management style for reigniting competition within the squad.

“The good thing about that manager, the gaffer, was that if you weren’t playing well, you didn’t play. That wasn’t always the case before, but under him, everyone had to stay sharp.”

Shaw’s experience was emblematic of the shift in Man United’s culture.

Under Ten Hag, no one was guaranteed a spot, players had to continuously prove themselves, a policy that injected new energy into the team.

“He makes sure that everyone is 100% every day. If you’re not at it then you won’t play. That’s a positive thing.”

Video of Erik ten Hag’s managerial philosophy at Manchester United below:

3. Personal Accountability and Comeback Impact

Shaw didn’t need specific instructions from Erik to know his performance wasn’t up to par.

Reflecting on that time, he shared;

“I didn’t need anyone to tell me. The first two games weren’t good enough, and I knew it was time for me to step aside.”

However, Shaw’s response was to stay focused and ready.

He maintained his form in training, waiting for his opportunity. When it came, he reclaimed his position and contributed to the team’s defensive revival.

He said;

“I just had to keep training hard every day in training so the manager could see I was training hard.”

“I was just waiting for my opportunity and had to bide my time because the team was doing well and we were winning.”

“You can’t moan. I just had to be there every day with the team, being involved and helping the team, whether that is starting or being on the bench.”

Ten Hag's Personal Accountability and Comeback Impact — Ten Hag’s Personal Accountability and Comeback Impact

4. A Defensive Game-Changer Impact

One of the key players during Erik’s transformational period was Lisandro Martinez, who joined United that summer for a fee of £56.7m from Ajax.

The Argentine center-back quickly became a fixture in the team’s defense, bringing intensity and technical skill to the backline.

Shaw, recalling Martinez’s early days at Old Trafford, said;

“His left foot was unbelievable. He fit in seamlessly, and you could see how much the fans loved him right away.”

Martinez’s presence not only bolstered United’s defense but also earned him a reputation for his aggressive style of play.

His impact was felt both on and off the field, as he brought a newfound solidity to the team.

Video of Lisandro Martinez’s Impact in Man United Squad Below:

5. Defensive Shift Impact

Looking back, it’s clear that Erik’s demanding approach and the emergence of players like Shaw and Martinez played a significant role in reshaping United’s defense.

Shaw, reflecting on that time, highlighted how the competition and accountability within the squad pushed everyone to be at their best.

“He [Martinez] brought that passion and aggression every game, and we needed that in the backline,” Shaw said in an interview after one of their key matches.

Shaw said;

“(He has been) unbelievable, to be honest,” Shaw told reporters after United’s draw with Newcastle. “You can see everyone loves him. The fans love him.”

“His left foot is unbelievable. I think it always helps when you play with a left-footer on the side because he naturally likes to come out to that side, and I think he has fitted in really well.”

“Of course, he can keep getting better and better, but for me so far, he has been unbelievable this season.”

“He needs to keep that up. His aggression, his passion, we need him in that backline. He brings that every game. I am really pleased to have him on the team.”

Video of the Best Man United Games Under Erik Ten Hag Below: