Manchester United’s Erik ten Hag has defiantly claimed the club is on an upward trajectory despite a season marred by underwhelming performances and injuries.
In his first year at the helm, Ten Hag steered the Red Devils to a third-place finish, Carabao Cup glory, and an FA Cup final appearance, but his second season has been less inspiring.
With the team languishing in eighth place as they approach their season finale against Brighton, there’s a real risk of achieving their lowest Premier League standing and points total ever.
The prospect of missing out on European football looms large, although victory in the upcoming FA Cup final against rivals Manchester City could secure both a trophy and Europa League qualification.
When questioned about the club’s current state compared to a year ago, especially considering INEOS’ involvement and the emergence of promising young talent, Ten Hag confidently responded: “Yes, I think that we develop some young players with high potential who can really add to the quality levels of our squad.”
He added: “I would say with established, experienced players, they can make a very good mix and what can be a very strong squad that can compete at the highest levels.
“I think that is also what we showed this season against top teams, often we are very competitive.”
Ten Hag candidly addressed United’s current standing compared to last year, saying: “When you look at the results, you would say no (we’re not on an upward trajectory), but we know the reasons behind (that).
“I would say yes. As you would say, we have more players, we have more high quality players in the squad and so, yeah, from that perspective we are in a better position.”
Ten Hag doesn’t see missing out on Champions League football as a critical hit to United’s transfer ambitions, asserting: “I think for every player Manchester United is a very attractive club.
“Of course you want to play at the highest levels, but if you want to go into a project in a club like Manchester United, I’m sure United is a very attractive club for every player.”
Despite some raised eyebrows over his comments, Ten Hag’s vision for a stronger future under Sir Jim Ratcliffe‘s leadership is clear, with significant changes on the horizon.
The debate rages on whether it’s preferable for United to skip European football altogether rather than participate in the Conference League during their rebuilding phase.
When quizzed about the potential embarrassment of playing in Europe’s third-tier competition, Ten Hag remained optimistic: “I never think in a negative scenario,” he declared. “We have the opportunity, we have it in our own hands, so go for it.”
