Erik ten Hag acknowledges that contemporary footballers find it challenging to handle criticism.

Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has expressed that contemporary footballers find it challenging to cope with criticism, contrasting this with his own era, where players had “much thicker skin”.

The 55-year-old was dismissed in October following a disappointing start to the season and faced conflicts with several prominent players during his spell at Old Trafford.

Cristiano Ronaldo openly stated that he did not hold Ten Hag in high regard, which ultimately led to his departure from the club in November 2022, just months after the Dutchman took charge.

In the following year, Jadon Sancho, who is now on loan at Chelsea, proclaimed on social media that he felt like a “scapegoat” after Ten Hag cited his training performances as the reason for dropping the England winger.

Furthermore, Ten Hag took disciplinary action against Marcus Rashford when the forward, currently on loan at Aston Villa, missed a training session after being reportedly seen in nightclubs in Northern Ireland.

Speaking to SEG Stories, a media platform affiliated with his management agency, Ten Hag remarked: “This generation tends to struggle with criticism. It really affects them.

“My generation had much thicker skin. You could be far more straightforward with us. I was approached in a much more direct manner. If I attempted that with my current players, it would likely demotivate them.”

Having been succeeded by Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford, Ten Hag played a significant role in the development of young talents such as Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.

He stated that young players require “different words and a different approach”.

“(Former United manager Alex) Ferguson was also from the previous generation. You could engage much more directly with that era,” he added.

“With this current generation, it’s essential to communicate your message in a more considerate manner to achieve the desired impact. Players need to feel more appreciated, which is something my generation found much harder to do compared to theirs.”

Ten Hag, who previously managed Ajax, won both the League Cup and FA Cup during his time at Old Trafford; however, the team finished eighth in the Premier League last season, marking their lowest top-flight placement for several decades.

Despite facing challenges, he stated he enjoyed his time at the club and felt valued by the fans.

Under Amorim’s leadership, United have faced significant difficulties and currently sit in 15th place in the Premier League, gearing up for Wednesday’s home match against Ipswich, who are battling relegation.

Additionally, the club announced this week that they anticipate implementing up to 200 job cuts as part of a “transformation plan” aimed at enhancing financial sustainability.