“Bond for life’’ Erik Ten Hag refuses to reveal details of chat with Chelsea star

Erik Ten Hag refuses to say anything about his conversation with Chelsea star Hakim Ziyech

Erik ten Hag has declined to discuss the conversation he had with Chelsea star Hakim Ziyech following the Premier League clash between the Blues and Manchester United last weekend.

Chelsea’s misery continued when they were beaten by Manchester United in the season’s penultimate encounter. The 4-1 loss showcased the gap we need to overcome to challenge for top honours next season.

However, the Blues had their moments of attack courtesy of Lewis Hall’s superb performance, who generated two spectacular chances. But as usual, Chelsea’s ineptitude was obvious in front of goal and we cut a sorry figure. United made us regret those missed chances by going 2-0 up at the break.

United never looked back after that, scoring two more goals before Joao Felix scored a consolation goal late on. It was, if anything, the lone saving grace in another awful performance.

Curiously, following the game, Ziyech and Ten Hag were seen chatting. When the United boss was asked what he was discussing with Moroccan, Ten Hag said Viaplay via Metro, (h/t Mirror).

“That is between Hakim and me. We have experienced a lot together—beautiful things. There is a bond for life. He has to play every week. A footballer like that, in the prime of his life, must be on the pitch.”

Ziyech had already played under Ten Hag while they were together at Ajax Amsterdam. The two are familiar with each other and have enjoyed some excellent spells of football in the Eredivisie and in Europe.

Meanwhile, the former Ajax star has struggled to replicate the same level of performance at Chelsea. His poor stint at Stamford Bridge appears to be coming to an end and it won’t come as a surprise if he is moved on in the summer.

More Chelsea News:

• Chelsea beat Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund to sign Kendry Paez
• Chelsea loanee Levi Colwill claims he is still focused on Brighton Hove & Albion
• Mason Mount is preparing a goodbye in Chelsea’s last game this weekend

It appears that the player does not want to stay at Chelsea and that the club should consider selling him if a reasonable price is offered. Whatever he might or not might not have discussed with Ten Hag, it is quite apparent that Ziyech’s spell at Chelsea is drawing to a close.