For Manchester United’s upcoming clash against Everton, Erik ten Hag has confirmed that assistant coach Mitchell van der Gaag will take charge on the touchline.
Ten Hag will be serving a touchline ban for accumulating three yellow cards in the current Premier League season, restricting him from the dressing room during the game. Despite this, he can communicate instructions to his coaching staff.
While Ten Hag watches from the director’s box, Van der Gaag will be in control from the dugout, supported by assistant coach Steve McClaren.
Ten Hag expressed confidence in his backroom staff, emphasizing their capability and experience to manage the game effectively.
Van der Gaag, who has been Ten Hag’s assistant at both Ajax and United, brings over a decade of coaching experience, having transitioned from a playing career in the Netherlands.
The 52-year-old previously coached in Portugal and Cyprus before returning to the Netherlands to manage various clubs, including FC Eindhoven, Excelsior, and NAC Breda, before joining Ajax.
Ten Hag is optimistic about his team’s readiness for the match, acknowledging their recent progress and strong away form.
He believes the players are well-prepared to handle the potential intensity of the atmosphere in Merseyside, expressing confidence in their ability to execute the game plan successfully.