Erik ten Hag has blasted Manchester United’s past transfer dealings, accusing them of bringing too many ‘average’ players to Old Trafford.
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United have spent over £1billion on new players since Sir Alex Ferguson left in 2013, winning an FA Cup, League Cup and Europa League in that time but with no silverware since that European success under Jose Mourinho five-and-a-half years ago.
While the Red Devils have faced countless false dawns during that period, there is renewed hope after ten Hag’s appointment in the summer with club showing improvement under his leadership.
The first summer transfer window overseen by the Dutchman has also seen United address a number of problem areas, with Casemiro, Lisandro Martinez, Christian Eriksen, Malacia and Antony all arriving at Old Trafford.
But the United head coach concedes they are now making up for past mistakes, hailing the leadership qualities and ‘personalities’ of recent signings.
In an interview with VI Magazine, Ten Hag said: ‘The club has bought an unimaginable number of players in recent years who have not been good enough.
‘Most purchases have been average – and at United average is not good enough. United’s shirt weighs heavily. Only real personalities, who can perform under great pressure, can play here.
‘We needed personalities. That’s why the acquisition of Casemiro was so important. Along with Raphael Varane, we now have a second player who has experience of winning titles.
‘Malacia, Martinez, Casemiro, Antony are all fighters, while Christian Eriksen is a technical winner and a great personality. ‘We want the best of the best. Any players we bring to Manchester United must meet the highest standard.’
United are hoping to sign a new forward option this month but the club will be limited to loan signings with Atletico Madrid’s Joao Felix among those being considered.
