New boss still analysing United’s squad
ERIK TEN Hag insists he is still conducting his analysis of the United squad as they approach the opening of the summer transfer window.
Former United interim manager Ralf Rangnick suggested ‘10 new players’ should be recruited as part of the squad rebuild, with six players out of contract and due to leave next month.
Nemanja Matic and Edinson Cavani have confirmed their departures, Juan Mata appeared to say farewell to supporters after the defeat at Crystal Palace, Jesse Lingard’s brother indicated the forward would leave and Paul Pogba has also played his last game for the club. Fourth-choice goalkeeper Lee Grant is set to be released. Dean Henderson has held discussions with Newcastle over a loan move, United are open to offers for full-backs Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Brandon Williams, centre-backs Phil Jones and Eric Bailly intend to leave and Anthony Martial could also be sold this summer.
“I’m still in the process of analysing, to set conclusions,” Ten Hag said.
“I look forward to working with these players. The season before, this squad was second in the league, so huge potential.
“No, I don’t speak with the players now, they need a break to reflect. I will speak with the players at the end of June and in the first week of July. I think if we improve, if we can work with them, I think we can get more out of them than this season. Yes, recruitment is an important part. I would like to work with [the staff]. We had good meetings and talks. We are on the same page. That is a good platform to start, I have confidence in that project. We have good people around and the right strategy and now we need to start work.” Ten Hag was in attendance at Selhurst Park on Sunday but remained stoic throughout United’s 12th Premier League defeat of the season and was coy at his introductory press conference.
“I observed it, I analysed it but it’s for me. I wasn’t a judge, I take this information to the new season.”