Erik ten Hag named Donny van de Beek and Frenkie de Jong 'strength' as possible Man United duo

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Erik ten Hag already has one half of his dynamic midfield duo that lit up European football in 2019. Many are hoping that Donny van de Beek’s real potential can be realised at Manchester United this season under his former Ajax boss.

Under both Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick, the midfielder was shunned — something Ten Hag called a “mortal sin”. It seems the player himself also feels he could be set for a better period at United.

He was all smiles when he arrived back at Carrington for the club’s first day of pre-season on Monday following his short loan spell at Everton. READ MORE: Ronald Koeman reveals where Manchester United target Frenkie de Jong wants to play next season Van de Beek’s grin may be even wider if the club manages to secure former Ajax teammate Frenkie de Jong — who is Ten Hag’s primary target this window.

The pair were instrumental in the Dutch club’s run to the semi-finals of the Champions League three years ago. The following summer, Erik ten Hag made reference to their style of play, highlighting their biggest strength.