Manchester United’s new manager, Erik ten Hag, is not feeling the pressure to secure a top-four finish next season, as the club’s football operations head, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, prioritizes long-term progress and sustained excellence. The focus is on rebuilding and establishing a firm foundation to ensure ongoing success, rather than immediate results.
Ten Hag is aiming to significantly improve on-field performance and off-field standards, with the support of sporting director Dan Ashworth. The club has made key signings such as Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee and is targeting a defence-minded midfielder and full-back to strengthen the squad.
Off the field, Ratcliffe has approved a £50m overhaul of the club’s Carrington training complex, which may take a season to complete. This will benefit the men’s, women’s, and academy teams, although the women’s team operating out of portable buildings temporarily.
To address last season’s injury crisis, Ten Hag has advocated for a shorter pre-season schedule to give players more rest. The team is currently on a pre-season tour in the United States, with matches scheduled against Arsenal, Real Betis, and Liverpool.
Overall, there is a sense of optimism and a strategic approach to rebuilding and reshaping Manchester United under the leadership of Erik ten Hag and the guidance of Sir Jim Ratcliffe. The focus is on long-term success and establishing a strong foundation for sustained excellence in the future.
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