Aron Winter, the former assistant to Ajax coach Erik ten Hag, is hoping to achieve a footballing miracle by guiding Suriname, a lowly CONCACAF nation, to their first ever World Cup in 2026. Winter believes that Ten Hag, who is currently struggling as the manager of Manchester United, has the potential to turn things around at the sinking club, but may need more support and guidance. Winter also reflects on his own career, playing alongside football greats such as Johan Cruyff, Paul Gascoigne, and Ronaldo.

United's Struggles and Ten Hag's Coaching Style

Ten Hag has faced intense scrutiny and criticism as the manager of Manchester United this season. However, Winter, who worked as his assistant at Ajax, believes that Ten Hag has the ability to handle the pressure and succeed. According to Winter, Ten Hag is a highly skilled and structured coach who is always focused on winning and outmaneuvering opponents. Despite the current challenges at United, Winter believes that with the right support and guidance, Ten Hag can turn things around.

Winter's Reflections on Ten Hag's Time at Ajax

Winter reflects on Ten Hag's time at Ajax, noting that the coach faced difficulties in his first six months due to fan backlash. However, Winter emphasizes the importance of having a supportive board and staff with a deep understanding of the club's DNA. Winter suggests that Ten Hag needs similar support at United to help him navigate the challenges he currently faces. Winter also mentions the painful memory of the Champions League semi-final loss to Tottenham and questions some of Ten Hag's decisions.

Winter's Remarkable Career and Playing with Football Greats

Born in Suriname, Winter moved to Holland as a child and went on to play for Johan Cruyff's renowned Ajax side in the mid-80s. He then had successful spells at Lazio and Inter Milan, playing alongside football legends such as Marco van Basten, Dennis Bergkamp, and Ronaldo. Winter reflects on his time playing with Paul Gascoigne and describes him as one of the best English players he's ever seen.

Holland's Golden Generation and Winter's International Career

Winter represented Holland for 13 years, earning 84 caps. However, he believes that Holland's Golden Generation, which included players like Van Basten and Gullit, should have achieved more success than just winning the 1988 Euros. Holland has since lost on penalties in six major tournaments, four of them in the semi-finals. Winter believes that a change in mentality is needed for the national team to win more consistently.

Winter's Focus on Suriname's World Cup Dream

Winter is now focused on his birthplace, Suriname, and his goal of leading the nation to their first ever World Cup in 2026. Despite not having a professional league, Suriname has a unique opportunity with the expanded World Cup format and the exemption of United States, Canada, and Mexico from qualifying. Winter is also scouting for Dutch players with Suriname heritage who could switch allegiances. He acknowledges the financial challenges they face but remains optimistic about their chances.

Overall, Winter's career has been filled with remarkable experiences and encounters with football greats. Whether he achieves his World Cup dream with Suriname or moves on to coach a Premier League club, Winter has built a legacy in the football world.