Erik ten Hag maintains that Jim Ratcliffe is eager to collaborate with him, even though they haven't yet spoken, as he gears up to oversee football operations at struggling Manchester United.
INEOS, Ratcliffe's group, recently finalised a deal to acquire a 25 percent stake in United on Christmas Eve.
Under the terms of the agreement, INEOS will be responsible for United's football operations, a deal that is anticipated to take four to six weeks to secure regulatory approval.
Dave Brailsford, INEOS' director of sport, attended Old Trafford on Boxing Day for the 3-2 victory against Aston Villa, providing some much-needed relief for the embattled Ten Hag.
Currently placed seventh in the Premier League, United face Nottingham Forest on Saturday, having already been eliminated from the Champions League and the League Cup.
Despite facing challenges in his second season in charge, Ten Hag is optimistic that Ratcliffe is keen to establish a working relationship to help steer United in the right direction.
"The schedule is so condensed, so I didn't have the time so far to speak with them, but it will come, and I look forward to it," Ten Hag told reporters on Friday.
"They want to work with me; I want to work with them. We will have the conversations and the meetings, so we will see."
When asked if he expects INEOS to be a regular presence at United's Carrington training base, Ten Hag responded, "I'm focused on the game so far.
"So, I said, no, in this moment I don't want to have distractions, but in the coming days and weeks, there will be time for this, and then I will know more.
"But I think it's a good thing; it's very positive, and, as I said, we are really looking forward to working together.
"INEOS wants to work with me in this structure, and I want to work with them."
The Glazer family, despite being unpopular, remains the majority shareholder at Old Trafford. However, a filing with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission related to the deal ensures that INEOS will be consulted on football matters at United.
This includes decisions regarding "appointing, dismissing, or accepting the resignation of any director of football or first-team manager of the company" as well as participating in discussions concerning the purchase or sale of any player.
"We always want to win, and it doesn't matter who is in charge of the club," Ten Hag said.
"We are appointed here to win, so in this area, we need a winning culture, no matter who is in the lead, no matter who is the owner. But, of course, the owners can inspire you."
