https://images.supersport.com/media/0fol5mg4/erik-ten-hag-24-10-g-1200.jpg?width=1920&quality=90&format=webpErik ten Hag is eagerly anticipating this week's Europa League clash against Jose Mourinho, describing the former Manchester United manager as "an example for many, many managers." United are set to face Fenerbahce in Istanbul, where Mourinho has been managing since joining the Turkish club in June following his departure from Roma.

Mourinho, one of football’s most successful and decorated managers, had a mixed spell at United from 2016 to 2018 but managed to secure both the League Cup and Europa League. With United under pressure after drawing their first two Europa League matches this season, Ten Hag is looking forward to testing his tactical abilities against Mourinho in Thursday's game.


Speaking at the Football Writers' Association Northern Managers Awards, Ten Hag said, "It’s a big game for both of us. I really enjoy coming up against him. He always has strong teams, and he’s a winner with a great track record. I think he’s an inspiration for many managers."

Did you read this?

  1. Man Utd Post Losses For Fifth Straight Year
  2. Haaland Double Puts Man City On Brink Of Premier League History
  3. Man Utd Defender Lisandro Martinez Ruled Out For At Least Eight Weeks With Knee Injury

Ten Hag, despite leading United to FA Cup success last season, is under heavy scrutiny after a shaky start to the current campaign. United sit 11th in the Premier League with only three wins from eight matches. However, the Dutchman understands that pressure is part of the job, stating, "This is football; you have to live in the present. The past is behind us, and we have to prove ourselves every day and every season. Our goal remains to win another trophy."


Some relief came for Ten Hag on Saturday as United secured a 2-1 comeback win against Brentford at Old Trafford, with Rasmus Højlund scoring the decisive goal. Højlund, who showed promise in his debut season, has been hampered by injuries this year, making his goal on the weekend his first in the Premier League since May.

Now that the 21-year-old Danish striker is nearing full fitness, Ten Hag believes Højlund will continue to make an impact. "He will always score. The key is staying fit. He had many injuries in his first season, but when he remains healthy, his stats prove he will find the back of the net," Ten Hag added.