INEOS recently confirmed Erik Ten Hag as Manchester United manager for the upcoming season. Moreover, the talks of a contract renewal are already underway.
Ten Hag’s position was under serious scrutiny as United went on to endure a calamitous season. The Red Devils ended the season on a historic-low securing 8th place finish in the Premier League. Additionally, United would concede 58 goals in the Premier League finishing with a -1 goal difference. The Manchester Reds would suffer heavy defeats at the hands of unlikely teams.
However, United would salvage their season thanks to Erik Ten Hag’s tactical masterclass at Wembley. United would beat Manchester City to lift the FA Cup. Furthermore, they would also secure Europa League qualification for the next season. Despite a happy ending, INEOS were far from being satisfied. They would plan to replace the 54-year old holding talks with several managers.
Kieran Mckenna was the firsts of many alternatives that INEOS considered. However, Mckenna would go on to extend his stay with newly promoted Ipswich Town. Former Chelsea managers Mauricio Pochettino and Thomas Tuchel were also targeted. Tuchel was a serious contender. But, the German coach would opt to take a break from coaching altogether this summer.
Former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi, Thomas Frank and Marco Silva were also probable candidates for the managerial role. Subsequently, INEOS decided to continue with Ten Hag.
Ten Hag signings at Manchester United: A disaster
INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe are very clear in their ways of operating Manchester United’s transfer end. However, if Ten Hag’s stay is extended at the Old Trafford, the Dutchman may have some influence on United’s moves.
The biggest problem is that most of the 54-year old’s signings have failed to live up to their billing at the Theatre of Dreams. Players like Rasmus Hojlund, Lisandro Martinez and Andre Onana have performed to a certain extent saving Ten Hag’s credibility.
However, even Hojlund wasn’t thoroughly consistent. But, the forward is still young and finding his feet. Needless to say, he was still impressive. Lisandro Martinez is good but the 26-year old is injury prone. He certainly can’t help Ten Hag from the bench. Andre Onana began his stint at Old Trafford poorly. Although, the Cameroonian goalkeeper has proven himself when needed at the back-end of the season.
Regardless, Ten Hag’s push for players like Antony, Mason Mount and Sofyan Amrabat has certainly not paid off. Antony has just not been good enough. The Brazilian winger would play beautifully in his initial days at United. However, since then it has been all downhill for Antony. Many fans see him as a waste of money.
Moreover, Mason Mount was supposed to be United’s big signing heading into the season. However, the Englishman could hardly perform due to his constant injury struggles. Mount would only score 1 goal throughout the season.
Sofyan Amrabat had everyone talking with his World Cup 2022 performances for Morocco. The Red Devils made a loan deal for him with Fiorentina. But, he could not perform up to his standards. Amrabat would play well in the final few games. However, he still couldn’t convince INEOS and the loan was not made permanent.
Will the Dutchman have any say?
Erik Ten Hag will be hoping to build a strong squad at Manchester United. Mario Melchiot believes that Ten Hag will have some influence at Manchester United. Melchiot said:
“I almost guarantee, if they extend his deal, he will have an influence on who is coming [signing], even if it’s not all, like [if they bring in] five players it will be two at least [that he has a say on].”
Given Ten Hag’s connection with youngsters like Alejandro Garnacho, Ramus Hojlund and Kobbie Mainoo, he should have some say at the very least.
Mainoo even went on to credit Ten Hag for his Euro selection. Moreover, Ten Hag could be key for addressing United’s defensive concerns. Matthijs de Ligt wants to reunite with the Dutchman and will be pushing for Old Trafford move.
If Ten Hag can bring about players and address INEOS’ concerns in a similar manner, no doubt he will have a major influence in the upcoming transfers of Manchester United.
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