Porto boss bluntly speaks out on ‘mistake’ around struggling Erik ten Hag and Man Utd

Manchester United play Porto in the Europa League on Thursday night, with pressure increasing on under-fire manager Erik ten Hag following a disastrous start to the new season.

Porto manager Vitor Bruno believes it would be a mistake for his team to underestimate Manchester United, despite their present situation.

United’s manager Erik ten Hag’s job is on the line following a disastrous start to the season, as they travel to Porto tonight in the Europa League.

Ten Hag’s squad is 13th in the Premier League following three defeats in their first six games, while their Europa League campaign began with a dull 1-1 draw against FC Twente at Old Trafford.

at that context, Ten Hag’s future is likely to be determined by their next two games, at Porto and away to Aston Villa on Sunday.

However, Porto manager Bruno said that he and his team should not expect an easy ride when they visit the fallen titans at Estadio Dragao.

“I’ve heard a lot of people saying that he [Ten Hag] was coming with a rope around his neck, but it would be a huge mistake [to underestimate United],” Bruno said.

“We’re talking about world-class players. If you give a different tale, it does not correspond to reality. Any club has difficulties, but we must be on our toes and extremely vigilant.

It is going to be really difficult. United are 13th in the Premier League, but we’ll see how things go. Ten Hag claims he always has championships at the end of the year.

“We’re talking about fantastic and exciting guys. Maybe they’re not having the nicest day, but we need to recognize where the risk is coming from and be in the appropriate frame of mind.”

When asked if it was a good moment to play United, Bruno replied, “I understand what you’re saying about the last match. But not at all. Exactly the contrary. We always consider them a danger. This is not the best time to confront them.

“I do not know Ten Hag. I have not met him yet, but I would want to. In Portugal, losing one match practically kills you.Carlos Carvahal, who formerly played in the Premier League and Championship, is the coach here.

“He explains that in England, the coaches drink a cup of wine together after the game. If Ten Hag wishes, the dressing room is available to him.”