Erik ten Hag Reveals Desired Signing in Recent Transfer Window
Manchester United manager, Erik ten Hag, has revealed that he wanted to bring in a striker during the recent transfer window. However, due to the club’s financial constraints and the need to comply with profit and sustainability rules, the signing was not possible. This means that ten Hag will have to be “a little bit creative” for the rest of the season in terms of finding solutions to the striker shortage.
The January transfer window has been relatively quiet across the Premier League, with many clubs hesitant to make big signings due to the financial implications of the ongoing pandemic. United, however, were involved in deadline day action, with teenage star Kobbie Mainoo scoring a late winner against Wolves. Despite this victory, the absence of a proven striker option, following Anthony Martial’s groin injury, is a cause for concern.
Ten Hag acknowledged the lack of backup in the striker position and expressed his desire for an additional signing. He mentioned that players like Omari Forson, Amad Diallo, and Marcus Rashford can fill in, but there is still a need for a dedicated number nine. Unfortunately, due to financial fair play (FFP) regulations, United had to focus on streamlining their squad and could not free up enough funds for a new striker.
The departure of players like Jadon Sancho, Donny van de Beek, and Hannibal Mejbri on loan helped reduce the wage bill but did not provide enough financial flexibility for a new signing. Ten Hag expressed his frustration with FFP rules, stating that selling good players is not the ideal way to build a team. Despite these challenges, United did make significant signings over the summer, including Rasmus Hojlund and Andre Onana.
In addition to the striker shortage, United has also faced issues with Mason Mount’s fitness. The midfielder joined from Chelsea for a fee rising to £60m but has been plagued by injuries, limiting him to just 12 appearances this season. Ten Hag expressed sympathy for Mount and emphasized the importance of getting him fit and integrated into the team.
Looking ahead, ten Hag remains optimistic that Mount will return this season and make a positive impact. He stressed the need for a secure and gradual recovery process to ensure that Mount can play a role in the team’s success. With the challenges posed by injuries and financial constraints, United will need to rely on their existing squad and the creativity of their manager to achieve their objectives of Champions League qualification and FA Cup glory.
In conclusion, Erik ten Hag’s desired signing of a striker during the recent transfer window was not possible for Manchester United due to financial constraints and FFP regulations. This has left the club with a shortage of options in the striker position, requiring ten Hag to be creative in finding solutions. Additionally, the team has faced challenges with Mason Mount’s fitness, but there is optimism that he will return this season. Despite these obstacles, United remains focused on achieving their goals for the season.