Wales coach Eric Ramsey has left his job at Manchester United and moved to MLS. And he appeared to be harshly critical of the Old Trafford club in his welcome message to his new team.
Ramsey, 32, took the reins at Minnesota United and spoke of the “strong soccer culture” he has with his new employer in his opening address to supporters.
The highly-regarded manager, who has also worked with the Wales national team and Swansea City, was first-team coach under United manager Erik ten Hag and will leave his role after this weekend’s Manchester derby. become.
He accepted the role as Minnesota’s manager, taking over the job from Cameron Knowles, but appears to have said goodbye to the Red Devils’ culture.
“I’m very excited to be joining a club with such a strong football culture, passionate fan base and great infrastructure,” said Ramsey. “I have spoken to many members of the club’s staff throughout the process and can’t help but feel everyone’s passion to move the club forward.”
He added: “There is a really exciting path ahead for the club and I look forward to playing my part in realizing that vision. I would like to thank the club for the confidence they have placed in me and look forward to this new success.” I hope this will be the beginning of a new era.” It’s a period for everyone associated with Minnesota United. ”
Manchester United said in a statement about Ramsey’s departure: “We would like to thank Eric for his contribution and wish him the best of luck in his first head coaching role in the United States.”
The news comes after the club’s new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe had strong words about the team.
Ratcliffe told Belgian newspaper Des Tigides that things need to change when it comes to Manchester’s red half. “We need to look at the structure of the club because it’s not very good at the moment,” Ratcliffe said. “Please bring the head coach.” [Erik ten Hag] For example, you should report directly to the CEO. That is no longer possible in modern football organizations.
“Then you have to make sure you have the right people in the right positions. All of your executives have to be world class. And it’s important to create a positive, supportive, friendly and high-quality environment.” That culture was missing before. Only in such an environment can an athlete reach his full potential. If he succeeds, the results will appear automatically. That’s the plan. Yes, and I believe that.”
Ramsey is one of six British coaches currently in MLS, the others being Dean Smith of Charlotte, Phil Neville of Portland Timbers, Gary Smith of Nashville and John of Toronto. – There’s Hardman, Nick Cushing from New York.
Ramsey, who previously played for Welshpool Town and Loughborough University, started his coaching career under Kieran McKenna. McKenna previously worked at United under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and is currently the manager of Championship high flyers Ipswich Town. Ramsey has also coached at Swansea, Shrewsbury and Chelsea.