Erik ten Hag has the chance to gain an early Manchester United advantage

Erik ten Hag could have enjoyed his Ajax farewell tour this week. Having secured a third Eredivisie title he could have partied with his squad as they head to Curacao, fulfilling a commercial commitment that also sounds an awful lot like a celebratory party.

Instead, Ten Hag will pass on the attraction of the Caribbean island and focus on his work with United. As of last night, there were no immediate plans for him to travel to Manchester, but it could make sense to do so.

The Dutchman hasn't 'officially' started work with United yet, but he has been involved in significant discussions on plans for the summer and for next season.

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After four-and-a-half years at Ajax, Ten Hag has earned the opportunity to take a break, but the workaholic coach wants to get a head start on the task at United instead.

“It’s time to turn the switch now,” he said following Ajax’s final game. “It’s something that is needed because there is a lot to take care of and I have the energy for it."

The switch isn't being turned off, rather it's being moved from Ajax to United. Having held a meeting with football director John Murtough the day after winning the league title, he's now stepping up plans for pre-season and his first campaign in charge.

This week certainly represents a real opportunity for Ten Hag to get ahead at United. Had the Dutch domestic season finished next weekend then he would probably have headed off on holiday, but the fact it's wrapped up a week earlier than the Premier League has worked in his favour.

It allows the 52-year-old to switch his focus and get a week of planning in the bag, with staff on the ground in Manchester to assist with that.

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