‘Everyone knows EXACTLY what to do on the pitch’: Victor Lindelof praises Erik ten Hag for creating a clear system at Man United – insisting his side ‘DESERVE’ their Champions League spot next season after winning 4-1 against Chelsea
Victor Lindelof has praised Erik ten Hag for putting together a clear system in his debut campaign at Manchester United, after his side secured their Champions League spot next season on Thursday.
The Red Devils beat Chelsea 4-1 at Old Trafford thanks to goals from Casemiro, Anthony Martial, Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford, climbing to third place in the Premier League ahead of their final game of the season against Fulham on Sunday.
The dominating win confirmed United’s place in next season’s Champions League and capped a positive debut season for Ten Hag.
Lindelof, who has been a United regular since Lisandro Martinez suffered a season-ending injury in April, admitted securing a top-four finish was “always the goal” for his side this season, and said insisted that playing with a clear identity was the secret. to accomplish the feat.
“That has always been our goal, so I’m very happy that we achieved that goal today,” Lindelof told MUTV.
Victor Lindelof praised Erik ten Hag after Manchester United made it into the top four
He hailed the Dutchman’s clear system and philosophy in his first season at Old Trafford
“I mean we knew we could secure the spot and we went out there and won the game. I think everyone is very happy.
“I think the mentality and the effort that everyone puts [has been the difference]. Everyone knows exactly what to do on the pitch, we have a system and everyone knows their role, so we’ve played good football this season.
“We deserve this place in the Champions League. I think I performed well and when I’m on the pitch I just want to help my teammates perform and win the game. I think I did, so I’m happy.
While restoring Manchester United’s status as a Champions League side, Ten Hag also lifted the club’s first major trophy since 2017 in his debut season at Old Trafford, winning the Carabao Cup in March.
Casemiro scored the opener as Manchester United triumphed 4-1 against Chelsea on Thursday
Set to face Manchester City in the FA Cup final in June, United are hoping to seal Ten Hag’s second trophy at Old Trafford and prevent their local rivals from securing a historic treble.
City, who won the Premier League title last weekend, face United in the FA Cup showpiece a week before facing Inter Milan in the Champions League final.
Asked about United’s crucial clash against City, Lindelof added: “We were just thinking about Chelsea today, but we have another big game on Sunday.”
“We want to perform, keep a good record at home and then we can focus on what’s next.”
