My new Direct interviewed for the same position I just accepted

Two of my new directs interviewed for the same position I recently interviewed for accepted the job offer. Looking for advice on how to handle these two situations. Should I address the elephane in the room, and if yes, how to approach. I believe I should bring the subject up in conversation soon after I assume responsibility for the new team. I have actually known both of these individuals for 20 plus years and actually reported to one of them well over 15 years ago. The previous manager told me one of the employees was disappointed, but was fine while the other one (the one I used to work for) was quite upset.