Antonio Conte has outlined to Erik ten Hag that the "pressure is massive" at Manchester United following the Dutchman's appointment in the hotseat. On the lookout for a new manager with interim boss Ralf Rangnick only in charge until the end of the campaign, the Red Devils have opted for Ten Hag as their next manager.
He wasn't the only candidate in consideration for the job at Old Trafford as former Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino was heavily linked with the position. However, Ten Hag will now depart Ajax at the end of the campaign, signing a three-year deal with the option of an additional 12 months at the Theatre of Dreams.
Asked about the 52-year-old at his pre-match press conference as he previewed the Brentford game, Conte said: "For sure, we're talking about a big club, an important club, but don't forget that last season United finished second in the league. This season, United improved the squad with Varane, Sancho and Cristiano Ronaldo."
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When it was put to him that they've gone backwards, he added: "Yeah but it's strange, no? Because last season they finished second and this season they improved the squad and you are going worse than last season. It means that it's not so easy in England, especially in England it's not so easy.
"For this reason I said to you during the season that many teams you have to pay attention to, because in England, it's so difficult you can't sleep. To finish in the relegation zone, to fight to avoid relegation or to fight for a place in the Europa League, the Conference League, to finish out of Europe.
"For sure, in England, for the manager it's a big job, for every manager because the competition is very high. The level is so high. For sure when you're at Manchester United, it's a top top club and the pressure is massive. For sure you have to fight to win trophies and titles. It's not easy because other top teams have the same idea."
