Manchester United wrapped up their three-match tour of the United States with a disappointing 3-0 loss to long-time rivals Liverpool. The tour concluded with Erik ten Hag’s side securing just one win against Real Betis, bookended by losses to Premier League foes Arsenal and Liverpool. As the 2024-25 Premier League season looms, there are several critical insights and challenges for United to address. Here’s what we’ve learned from their American adventure and what lies ahead for the Old Trafford club, starting with the Community Shield clash against Manchester City on August 10.
Ten Hag Stresses Unity
Despite the defeat by Liverpool in South Carolina, Erik ten Hag did not seem overly concerned. The atmosphere within the squad is vastly different from the chaotic 2018 tour under Jose Mourinho, which ended with Mourinho’s departure five months later. Ten Hag has emphasized the unity and determination within the club’s new executive structure to build a competitive squad.
However, Ten Hag is acutely aware that failure to improve on last season’s eighth-place finish could spell trouble for his tenure. His immediate focus will be on assessing the fitness of players who returned late from Euro 2024 and Copa America for the upcoming Community Shield against Manchester City.
Striking Dilemma
United’s pre-season has been marred by injury concerns, particularly in the striking department. Rasmus Hojlund’s hamstring injury after his excellent first-half opener against Arsenal was ill-timed. New arrival Joshua Zirkzee, who was on Netherlands duty at Euro 2024, has yet to train with the main group, leaving Ten Hag to experiment with wide players in central roles.
Ten Hag has scrapped last season’s idea of pushing Marcus Rashford through the middle, preferring him on the left wing. Jadon Sancho, used centrally, is not entirely convinced. Ten Hag may turn to skipper Bruno Fernandes in a false nine role, especially with Mason Mount and Scott McTominay impressing in the number 10 position.
Defensive Woes and Rising Talent
The left-back situation remains a concern for Ten Hag. Teenager Harry Amass’ performance against Mo Salah in South Carolina provided some hope, but the Dutchman’s revelation that Tyrell Malacia is still two months away from full fitness highlights the urgency of the issue. Luke Shaw’s fitness will be crucial as United navigates a packed club calendar.
Amass showed promise against Salah, but United needs Shaw to be fit and stay fit for the season. On the right side of defense, Aaron Wan-Bissaka could make way for Bayern Munich’s Noussair Mazraoui, but moving players on high contracts remains challenging.
Goalkeeping Questions
Andre Onana’s handling error leading to Liverpool’s third goal raised concerns among United fans. However, his distribution skills, reminiscent of Peter Schmeichel, offer a silver lining. Injuries to defenders last season meant Onana never had a consistent back four, affecting his performances. A stable defense this season could see a significant improvement in United’s results.
Transfer Plans and the Men ‘Upstairs’
United’s new structure, featuring figures like Sir Dave Brailsford, Omar Berrada, Dan Ashworth, and Jason Wilcox, will be pivotal in shaping the 2024-25 campaign. They face the challenge of addressing past recruitment mistakes and financial realities, such as Casemiro’s enormous salary and Antony’s underwhelming performance despite his hefty price tag.
United’s transfer strategy hinges on selling players like Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire to bring in fresh talent, particularly in central defense. Effective recruitment and financial management will be key to avoiding past errors and building a competitive squad.
The Road Ahead
As United prepares for the Community Shield against Manchester City, Ten Hag’s immediate tasks include assessing player fitness and finalizing transfer plans. The club’s performance in the upcoming season will depend on key players’ health, effective recruitment, and maintaining squad unity.
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As Manchester United navigates the challenges of the upcoming season, fans remain hopeful for a successful campaign under Erik ten Hag’s leadership. The journey may be tough, but with unity, strategic recruitment, and the fitness of key players, the Red Devils can aim to return to their glory days.