Manchester United goalkeeper Tom Heaton has shared his thoughts on the recent changes to Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff, expressing his admiration for the new additions.
Ten Hag, who faced scrutiny over the summer but ultimately retained the support of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, wasted no time in revamping his backroom team at Old Trafford. Among those who departed were Steve McClaren and Benni McCarthy, with Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake stepping in to fill the void. Long-serving goalkeeping coach Richard Hartis also exited, making way for Jelle ten Rouwelaar.
Heaton, reflecting on the shake-up, expressed his appreciation for Hartis, who had been a trusted figure at the club during two separate stints. “Richard Hartis, the goalkeeper coach, who I have a brilliant relationship with, known him for a long time, was superb,” Heaton told The Independent. Despite the changes, Heaton has been impressed by Ten Rouwelaar’s approach, noting, “Jelle’s come in with different ideas and I’m really enjoying working with him at the minute.”
Heaton praised Ten Rouwelaar’s innovative training methods, saying, “A lot of thinking behind his training sessions, making the goalkeepers really stress their thinking and understand the in-possession tactical stuff. It’s been really good so far. Real good guy, really enjoyed working with him, and that goes for the rest of the coaching staff that have come in.”
Heaton also spoke positively about the arrival of van Nistelrooy, whom he remembers from his early days at United, and the fresh perspective brought by Rene Hake and Andreas Georgson. “It’s sort of a fresh look,” Heaton added, reflecting on the overall impact of the new staff.
Richard Hartis, who was an integral part of Sir Alex Ferguson’s team during his first spell at the club from 2001 to 2010, left a legacy that Heaton and others clearly respect. In a statement following his departure, Hartis said, “Manchester United is a special football club and it’s been wonderful to be part of it on two separate occasions over the past 24 years. I am proud to have had the opportunity to work with some very hard-working and committed people across all areas of the club.”
He expressed his gratitude to the goalkeepers he worked with and wished the club success in the future, leaving on a high note after his long association with the Red Devils.
