Judging by Their First Three Seasons: Who Performed Better? Sir Alex Ferguson (SAF) or Erik ten Hag (ETH)?

Manchester United, one of the most successful football clubs in the world, has been shaped by legendary managers over the years. Among the most prominent figures in the club’s history are Sir Alex Ferguson (SAF) and Erik ten Hag (ETH). SAF’s legacy as one of football’s greatest managers is undeniable, while ETH, Manchester United’s current manager, has shown promising potential. But how do their performances compare over their first three seasons? Let’s delve into their respective managerial starts, evaluating key metrics and milestones.

1. The Context Behind Their Appointments

Before diving into the statistics and performances, it’s essential to understand the context of each manager’s arrival at Manchester United. Both SAF and ETH took charge at very different stages in the club’s history.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s Arrival (1986)

When SAF arrived in November 1986, Manchester United was struggling both domestically and in Europe. The club hadn’t won the league since 1967, and despite some cup success under Ron Atkinson, it was far from the dominating force it would later become under Ferguson. SAF’s job was to rebuild a club that had fallen behind Liverpool, who were the dominant team in English football at the time.

Ferguson’s task was immense: to restore Manchester United to glory, knock Liverpool off their perch, and revitalize the club’s youth system. The journey would prove long and arduous, with many fans and critics doubting his capabilities early on.

Erik ten Hag’s Arrival (2022)

Erik ten Hag was appointed in April 2022, succeeding Ole Gunnar Solskjær and interim manager Ralf Rangnick. Ten Hag faced a modern Manchester United that had fallen far from its SAF-era dominance. After SAF’s retirement in 2013, the club struggled with managerial instability and a lack of clear direction, with short-term stints from David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, and José Mourinho.

ETH was brought in to stabilize the club and return Manchester United to the top of English and European football. However, unlike SAF, Ten Hag inherited a team in a vastly different football landscape with massive financial resources but enormous pressure for immediate success.

2. First Three Seasons at Manchester United

Sir Alex Ferguson (1986–1989)

Ferguson’s first three seasons at Manchester United were anything but smooth. Many questioned whether he was the right man for the job, and the pressure to deliver silverware grew as the years passed.

• 1986-1987: SAF joined midway through the season and Manchester United finished 11th in the league. While no immediate impact was seen, Ferguson began restructuring behind the scenes.
• 1987-1988: United improved to finish second in the First Division but still trailed significantly behind Liverpool. Ferguson’s restructuring of the squad began to show promise, but the gap in quality was evident.
• 1988-1989: This season was a low point for Ferguson, with United finishing 11th again. The pressure on him reached new heights, and many called for his dismissal.

Despite the struggles, Ferguson’s work to rebuild the youth system and overhaul the squad’s mentality laid the foundation for future success. The turning point came after his third season, with his first trophy arriving in 1990 with the FA Cup win. However, his early days were full of growing pains.

Erik ten Hag (2022–2025)

Ten Hag, though still early in his tenure, has already had an impact on Manchester United. His first season showed a clear improvement in the team’s performance, though the challenges remain.

• 2022-2023: ETH’s first season saw immediate changes in playing style, with United adopting a more structured approach. He led United to third place in the Premier League, securing Champions League qualification, and also won the Carabao Cup, the club’s first silverware in six years. Ten Hag brought a sense of order and discipline to the team, but there were still inconsistencies in performances.
• 2023-2024: ETH’s second season is ongoing, but as of now, Manchester United has seen mixed performances in both domestic and European competitions. The team is still in transition, but ETH continues to build a squad capable of challenging for top honors.
• 2024-2025: The future remains uncertain, but there is optimism that ETH will deliver more consistent results in his third season as he continues to shape the team in his vision.

3. Trophies and Achievements: Ferguson vs. Ten Hag

A manager’s success at Manchester United is often measured by silverware, and comparing their first three seasons provides insights into how SAF and ETH performed.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s First Three Seasons (1986-1989)

• Trophies Won: None
• League Finishes: 11th, 2nd, 11th

Ferguson’s early years were defined by restructuring rather than immediate success. His inability to deliver trophies in his first three seasons led to significant pressure from fans and media alike. However, his long-term approach of rebuilding the club would later pay off massively.

Erik ten Hag’s First Two Seasons (2022-2025)

• Trophies Won: Carabao Cup (2023)
• League Finish (So Far): 3rd

ETH already has a trophy to his name and secured Champions League football in his first season, something SAF failed to achieve. While the consistency and dominance of the Ferguson era have yet to materialize, Ten Hag’s early returns show promise for the future.

4. Squad Overhauls and Transfers

Both managers inherited squads that were not up to Manchester United’s historical standards, and each had to oversee significant squad overhauls.

SAF’s Squad Overhaul (1986-1989)

Ferguson’s early years were marked by an overhaul of Manchester United’s squad. His strategy was to promote youth and find players who could fit into his long-term vision. Ferguson made key signings like Steve Bruce, Brian McClair, and Viv Anderson, but many of his transfers during these years failed to make the desired impact. Additionally, Ferguson placed a strong emphasis on revamping the club’s academy, which would later produce the Class of ‘92, featuring stars like Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, and David Beckham.

ETH’s Squad Overhaul (2022-2025)

Erik ten Hag has also been active in the transfer market. Early in his tenure, ETH made several key signings, including Antony from his former club Ajax, Lisandro Martínez, and Casemiro, whose experience and quality have added steel to United’s midfield. The biggest challenge for ETH has been integrating these new signings and moving on from players who no longer fit the club’s needs. While Ten Hag’s transfer strategy is still developing, his acquisitions have shown more immediate success compared to Ferguson’s early transfers.

5. Playing Style and Tactical Evolution

Ferguson’s Tactics (1986-1989)

Ferguson initially struggled to impose his tactical philosophy at Manchester United. His early years were characterized by a pragmatic and disciplined style of play, with an emphasis on organization and work rate. However, it wasn’t until later that Ferguson began implementing the attacking football that United became known for. His focus on building from the back and relying on strong defensive units was the cornerstone of his initial approach.

Ten Hag’s Tactics (2022-2025)

Erik ten Hag brought a more modern, possession-based style to Manchester United. His teams press aggressively, maintain high defensive lines, and look to control the game through midfield dominance. Ten Hag’s approach is heavily influenced by his time at Ajax, where he developed a system based on fluid attacking play and defensive solidity. While his tactics have been well-received, the team is still adjusting to the demands of this style, particularly in high-stakes matches.

6. Fan and Media Perception

SAF’s Early Criticism

Ferguson’s early tenure was marked by significant media and fan criticism. There were even calls for him to be sacked after a poor run of results in the 1988-1989 season. The infamous “three years of excuses and it’s still crap” banner displayed by fans reflected the discontent around Ferguson’s reign. Despite the pressure, the Manchester United board backed Ferguson, which proved to be a decision that changed the club’s fortunes forever.

ETH’s Reception So Far

Ten Hag’s start at Manchester United has been more positively received. The Carabao Cup win and improved league position have given ETH breathing space, and fans appreciate his clear tactical vision. However, United’s inconsistency in performance, especially in big matches, has led to questions about his ability to deliver sustained success. Ten Hag’s managerial reputation is still growing, but the media has been largely supportive of his efforts.

7. Comparing the Long-Term Vision

Both Sir Alex Ferguson and Erik ten Hag shared a clear vision for the future of Manchester United, although the challenges they faced and the strategies they employed were shaped by the eras in which they managed. Examining their long-term goals and how they aligned with Manchester United’s broader ambitions gives us insight into their similarities and differences in approach.

Ferguson’s Long-Term Vision

Sir Alex Ferguson’s long-term vision was rooted in building a dynasty—something Manchester United sorely needed at the time of his appointment. His strategy was twofold: immediate squad improvement and long-term youth development. This vision took years to fully materialize but ultimately led to one of the most dominant periods in football history.

Key Components of Ferguson’s Vision:

1. Youth Development: SAF placed a strong emphasis on nurturing young talent, which was most famously realized in the Class of ’92 (featuring players like Ryan Giggs, David Beckham, Paul Scholes, and Gary Neville). This commitment to the academy system created a constant pipeline of homegrown talent.
2. Long-Term Success Over Quick Fixes: Ferguson was not afraid to take the long route. He focused on creating a sustainable foundation for success rather than relying solely on high-profile signings. This patience allowed him to build squads that were capable of long-term success.
3. Building a Dominant Culture: SAF’s management style focused on instilling a winning mentality. He placed a strong emphasis on discipline, professionalism, and hard work, which he demanded from every player. His influence was not just tactical but psychological, building a team culture that emphasized resilience and a refusal to give up.
4. Gradual Transition in Playing Style: Ferguson adapted his tactical approach over time. While his early years focused on pragmatic, defensive football, his team gradually evolved to play an attacking style with pace on the wings and a focus on counter-attacking football. This adaptability allowed his teams to remain competitive even as football evolved.

Legacy and Impact:

Ferguson’s long-term vision culminated in 13 Premier League titles, two UEFA Champions League titles, and a host of domestic and international honors. His ability to build, rebuild, and transition teams over multiple generations cemented his status as one of the greatest managers in the sport’s history. His influence extended beyond tactics to shaping Manchester United’s identity as a club with a winning mentality and a commitment to youth development.

Ten Hag’s Long-Term Vision

Erik ten Hag’s long-term vision is still in its early stages, but it bears some striking similarities to Ferguson’s approach. ETH’s time at Ajax showcased his ability to blend youth development with tactical innovation, and he has brought this philosophy to Manchester United.

Key Components of Ten Hag’s Vision:

1. Emphasis on Structure and Discipline: Similar to SAF, ETH has worked to instill discipline both on and off the pitch. Since his arrival, Ten Hag has emphasized structure in the squad—tactically and mentally. He has been strict in his management style, holding players accountable for their performances and attitudes.
2. Rebuilding the Youth System: ETH understands the importance of a strong academy and has shown interest in further developing Manchester United’s youth program. He aims to create an environment where young talents, like Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo, can flourish. Like SAF, Ten Hag views youth as the future cornerstone of the club.
3. Tactical Evolution and Modern Football: Ten Hag is recognized for his modern, high-pressing, possession-based style of football, which contrasts with the more direct approaches of Ferguson’s early years. ETH’s vision is to establish a tactically flexible squad that can dominate matches through controlled possession, fluid attacking play, and high defensive pressure—characteristics of modern elite football.
4. Restoring United’s Global Prestige: Ten Hag is keen to return Manchester United to the summit of both English and European football. He understands the commercial and sporting importance of sustained success and is working to ensure the club can consistently compete with the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool, and other European powerhouses.

Potential Legacy and Challenges:

Ten Hag’s potential legacy will depend on several factors, including his ability to successfully implement his vision in a football landscape that is vastly different from Ferguson’s era. The modern game is characterized by immense financial pressure, greater scrutiny from fans and media, and increased competition. ETH must navigate these challenges while balancing the club’s immediate need for silverware with his long-term strategy.

• Immediate Pressure: Unlike SAF, who was given time to rebuild the club, ETH faces more immediate pressure to deliver results due to the high expectations set by fans and the club’s modern commercial demands. Manchester United is now a global brand with immense financial stakes, and patience can often be short-lived.
• Squad Evolution: ETH has started his squad overhaul, but it will take several transfer windows for him to fully shape the team in his image. Like Ferguson, his ability to rebuild over multiple seasons while maintaining success will define his legacy.
• Adapting to Football’s Evolution: One of the key challenges for Ten Hag is the fast-evolving nature of football. Tactics, data-driven decision-making, and the role of sports science have become far more advanced than in Ferguson’s era. ETH’s ability to stay ahead of these trends while maintaining the core principles of his philosophy will determine his long-term success.

8. Final Verdict: Who Performed Better in the First Three Seasons?

If we are strictly judging by the first three seasons alone, Erik ten Hag has outperformed Sir Alex Ferguson in terms of immediate impact. ETH has already secured silverware and returned Manchester United to the Champions League, which SAF did not achieve in his first three years.

However, Ferguson’s long-term impact far outweighs his early struggles. His work during those challenging years laid the groundwork for the most successful era in Manchester United’s history. ETH may have had a more promising start, but it is the next few years that will determine whether he can build a lasting legacy akin to Ferguson’s.

In conclusion, while Ten Hag’s short-term success is commendable, Ferguson’s long-term achievements set a standard that ETH will have to work very hard to match. Time will tell if Erik ten Hag can cement his place in Manchester United history the way Sir Alex Ferguson did.

Conclusion

When comparing Sir Alex Ferguson’s first three seasons to Erik ten Hag’s, the challenges, context, and expectations were vastly different. Ferguson’s first few years were defined by immense struggles and pressure, with the early signs of success only emerging in his fourth season. Ten Hag, by contrast, has delivered immediate improvements, including securing a trophy and Champions League football in his first season.

However, SAF’s legacy is built on a long-term vision that transformed Manchester United into a global powerhouse. The early seasons were crucial in laying the foundation for future glory. ETH’s journey is still unfolding, and while he has shown promise, his ability to replicate SAF’s long-term success remains to be seen.

The true measure of Erik ten Hag’s impact will only be clear in years to come, but judging by their first three seasons, SAF and ETH followed different paths to rebuilding Manchester United. While Ten Hag’s short-term success gives him an edge at the moment, Ferguson’s legacy of patience, youth development, and cultural transformation is what truly made him one of the greatest managers of all time.