René Hake: A Journey from Dutch Football to Assistant Manager at Manchester United
René Hake, a name that resonates with Dutch football enthusiasts, has made significant strides in his coaching career. From managing clubs in the Eredivisie to now being the Assistant Manager at one of the world’s most prestigious football clubs, Manchester United, Hake’s journey is both fascinating and inspiring. This article delves deep into who René Hake is, his career trajectory, and his significant impact on Manchester United.
Early Life and Football Beginnings
René Hake was born on December 18, 1971, in Coevorden, Netherlands. His journey into football started at a young age, playing for local clubs and honing his skills on the field. Hake’s first professional club was SC Oranje, a club based in Schoonebeek, Drenthe, where he began his career in the lower leagues. His early football years laid the foundation for his future as a coach.
Although Hake showed promise as a player, he ultimately decided to pursue a career in coaching. He furthered his education in sports and physical education at CIOS Heerenveen, where he gained the knowledge and skills to transition from player to coach. This period was instrumental in shaping his managerial philosophy, focusing on both football tactics and the development of young players.
Rise as a Manager in Dutch Football
René Hake’s managerial career began in the youth divisions of FC Emmen and FC Twente. In these early roles, Hake demonstrated his ability to nurture young talent and implement strategic football tactics. His tenure at FC Twente saw him lead the under-19 team to success, securing the national championship and the Super Cup in 2007.
In 2010, Hake was appointed the head coach of FC Emmen, where he began his journey in senior management. His first spell as a head coach was marked by a remarkable nine-match unbeaten streak after taking over the reins, signaling his potential as a promising manager.
Hake’s Stints at Various Clubs
FC Twente (2015-2017)
Hake’s first senior coaching role in the Eredivisie came in 2015 when he returned to FC Twente as the head coach. Despite the club facing financial difficulties, Hake managed to guide Twente to a respectable seventh-place finish in the Eredivisie in the 2016-2017 season. His tactical flexibility and focus on building a cohesive unit were key factors in the team’s performance. Unfortunately, his tenure at Twente ended in November 2017 following a series of disappointing results.
SC Cambuur (2018-2019)
After leaving Twente, Hake took over as head coach of SC Cambuur in February 2018. His time at Cambuur further cemented his reputation as a tactician who values team unity and adaptability. Although the team faced several challenges, Hake worked tirelessly to ensure that the club maintained a competitive edge in the Eredivisie.
FC Utrecht (2019-2022)
Hake’s next major role came in 2019, when he was appointed head coach of Jong FC Utrecht, the reserve team of FC Utrecht. His work with the reserve team provided him with invaluable experience in developing young players and working within a larger club structure. In November 2020, Hake was promoted to head coach of FC Utrecht, a role he held until April 2022.
Under his leadership, Utrecht experienced a successful run, finishing in seventh place in the Eredivisie. This achievement was seen as a testament to Hake’s tactical acumen and his ability to get the best out of his squad. His focus on team-oriented football, along with his expertise in building a solid defense, earned him praise from fans and pundits alike.
Go Ahead Eagles (2022-2024)
In June 2022, Hake made the move to Go Ahead Eagles, a club based in Deventer. Here, he was tasked with building a competitive team in the Eredivisie, which he did with a combination of tactical discipline and youthful energy. Hake’s time at Go Ahead Eagles demonstrated his resilience and commitment to his coaching philosophy, leading the club for two years before making the leap to Manchester United.
René Hake at Manchester United
In July 2024, René Hake made the transition to one of the most iconic football clubs in the world, Manchester United. Joining the club as the Assistant Manager to Erik ten Hag, Hake entered a new chapter in his career. His appointment at Manchester United was seen as a reflection of his tactical expertise and experience in managing top-level teams.
As assistant to ten Hag, Hake brings a wealth of knowledge and a tactical understanding of football that complements the team’s playing style. His focus on building a strong defensive foundation and involving all players in both attacking and defensive phases of play aligns with Manchester United’s broader tactical goals.
Coaching Philosophy and Impact
René Hake’s coaching philosophy revolves around creating a well-organized and disciplined team. He is known for his tactical flexibility, adaptability, and his emphasis on possession-based football. His defensive structure is compact, making it difficult for opponents to break down his teams.
At the same time, Hake promotes quick transitions, encouraging his players to capitalize on counter-attacking opportunities. His ability to adapt to different situations and modify his tactical approach according to the strengths and weaknesses of his team has been one of the defining aspects of his career.
Hake’s emphasis on team play is also central to his coaching style. He believes that success in football comes from a collective effort rather than individual brilliance. This philosophy has enabled him to get the best out of the players he’s managed, particularly in his roles at FC Utrecht and Go Ahead Eagles.
The Future of René Hake
As of 2025, René Hake remains an integral part of Manchester United’s coaching staff. His experience, both as a former player and a manager, has made him a valuable asset to the club. Given his tactical insights and proven track record, Hake is expected to play a crucial role in the future success of the team under ten Hag.
Additionally, Hake has expressed interest in further managerial opportunities. His name has been linked with other managerial roles in Europe, and it is likely that, in the future, he may return to a head coach position in a top-tier league.
Conclusion
René Hake’s career is a testament to hard work, dedication, and the power of tactical thinking. From his early days in Dutch football to his current role at Manchester United, Hake has proven himself to be a manager capable of adapting to various footballing challenges. His time at Manchester United marks the culmination of years of effort and development, but it also represents a new beginning for a coach who is constantly evolving.
As football fans, we can only look forward to seeing how Hake’s experience and insights will shape the future of one of the biggest clubs in the world. With his track record of success, tactical intelligence, and passion for the game, René Hake is undoubtedly a name to watch in the world of football coaching.
