In his first Manchester United press conference, Erik ten Hag discussed Ronaldo’s future, Maguire’s captaincy, and Rangnick’s role.

Erik ten Hag got on with the tremendous task before him at Old Trafford as the blue side of Manchester suffered from a massive hangover the day after the Premier League season ended.

Ten Hag met members of the media for his first news conference as Manchester United manager, less than 24 hours after Manchester City won their fourth Premier League title in five seasons.

The former Ajax coach was there at United’s season-ending loss to Crystal Palace on Sunday, but he tried to keep a positive attitude.

When questioned if restoring United to their past glory would jeopardize their carefully cultivated reputation, he answered, “I don’t see this as a risk.”

“I believe this club has a bright future ahead of it.” I’m really pleased to achieve that with the people in the club — work hard, be fully committed, and I’m confident we’ll succeed.”

However, Ten Hag must overcome various obstacles to make this a reality. Despite his desire to give little away, we were able to gather three things from his opening statements.

Ten Hag reaffirmed his dedication to the appealing style of play that his Ajax teams have become known for in recent years. That means pushing high and attacking aggressively.

There will be plenty of talk about how Ronaldo in his present vintage fits into this, just as there was around the start of Ralf Rangnick’s interim tenure. Some critics have said that the Portugal legend’s lack of work off the ball has a negative affect on United’s team structure now that he is 37.

On the other hand, without Ronaldo’s 24 goals in 39 games across all competitions, it’s impossible to say where a team that finished sixth in the Premier League would have ended up. Ten Hag appears to be concentrating on that side of the problem for the time being.

When asked if Ronaldo will be a part of his United idea, he said, “Of course.” What will he bring with him? “Goals.”

The Dutch tactician refused to go into detail, instead stating that he will speak with Ronaldo and the rest of his team when they return for preseason training in the first week of July, emphasizing the need of taking a break after a draining season.

There were encouraging words for Harry Maguire, albeit there was no certainty that the struggling England defender would preserve his United captaincy.

“Next season will be different, but I think he did a fantastic job this season.” He’s a fantastic athlete,” he remarked. “In his contribution to Manchester United, he has already accomplished a great deal.” I’m excited to collaborate with him.”