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August 2, 2024

Erik ten Hag issues concerning Manchester United Transfer Update following New Double Injury Setback – EPL

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Erik ten Hag has expressed concern that Manchester United may face challenges in making further signings during the transfer window due to another severe injury setback. This latest injury impacts the team’s immediate performance and complicates the club’s financial strategy.

Marcus Rashford and Antony both exited the pitch with injuries during Manchester United’s 3-2 pre-season victory over Real Betis in San Diego, USA, in the early hours of Thursday morning. Their departures from the match raised immediate concerns among fans and the coaching staff about the extent of their injuries, particularly given the team’s ongoing struggles with fitness this pre-season.

Just days earlier, in the 2-1 friendly defeat to Arsenal, the £52 million signing Leny Yoro was confirmed to be sidelined for up to three months due to a broken foot. Additionally, Rasmus Hojlund faced a six-week absence after suffering a hamstring injury.

This situation places Manchester United in a precarious position, potentially leaving them without several key first-team players as the start of the Premier League season approaches. The injuries to Yoro and Hojlund could significantly impact the team’s performance and depth, forcing the coaching staff to reassess their strategy in preparation for the challenges ahead.

However, Erik Ten Hag has clarified that addressing these gaps by simply entering the transfer market is not a challenging solution. The complexities of financial fair play (FFP) regulations restrict the club’s ability to sign significantly, limiting their options. Ten Hag emphasized that any potential acquisitions would need to be carefully considered within the constraints of FFP, which aims to ensure clubs operate within their financial means.

‘Every club has those limitations,’ the United manager said when asked about any more incomings this summer.

‘The FFP rules for every club is there. Also, we have to manage this and go with those rules.

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‘We have to manage it as good as possible to construct the best squad possible.’

Manchester United has been prominently linked with potential signings for center-back Matthijs de Ligt and right-back Noussair Mazraoui. However, reports indicate that the German club turned down a joint bid for the Bayern Munich duo, complicating United’s plans to strengthen its defensive lineup.

The situation surrounding De Ligt has become increasingly uncertain as negotiations appear to have stalled. This is especially concerning given Raphael Varane’s recent departure from the club, leaving the Red Devils with a significant gap in their defensive options.

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Lisandro Martinez is set to start against Liverpool on Sunday, and Ten Hag added: ‘Of course, we have a plan for every individual where they have to show up, and that plan is now running.

‘We know every player where they are fitness-wise and next week we have to bring everything together.’

The United manager is optimistic about reaching an agreement with Bayern Munich for Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui. Both have reportedly been informed that they are surplus to requirements this season under new boss Vincent Kompany. This situation presents a potential opportunity for Manchester United to secure two valuable additions to their squad.

However, Bayern has communicated to United that they will need to present a ‘higher fee’ to finalize these signings, according to reports from The Athletic. This demand could complicate negotiations, especially considering the financial fair play (FFP) concerns that Ten Hag has raised. The club is navigating a challenging financial landscape, making it imperative that any potential transfers align with FFP regulations.

Bayern is reportedly seeking around £42 million for De Ligt. This price reflects his status as one of Europe’s top defenders, while they are looking for approximately £13 million for Mazraoui, who has already agreed on personal terms with United. The need for a financial compromise could prove to be a significant hurdle, but with Varane’s departure and the urgent need for defensive reinforcements, the club must act decisively. As negotiations progress, fans will be eager to see how United balances ambition with financial prudence to strengthen the squad ahead of the new season.