Many Manchester United fans will be disappointed in the manner in which Cristiano Ronaldo left the club, even if it was ultimately the correct decision..
While Erik ten Hag’s departure has removed one headache, it has created another. United are dangerously thin on strikers, with arguably only one true number nine remaining at the club.
Anthony Martial’s future at Manchester United was up in the air this summer after a disappointing loan spell at Sevilla. However, a promising pre-season and his bouts of success in between his frequent injuries have propelled him to Ten Hag’s first-choice striker..
His manager, on the other hand, will be concerned by his constant setbacks. Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford, who has admitted that he performs best on the left wing, can also play as a central striker.
Indeed, none of his eight goals have come while playing as the lead attacker, and his performances when called upon have been disappointing. Fans are eager to sign Cody Gakpo, who has been on fire for both club and country this season..
He has already contributed 30 goals for PSV and scored in each of the Netherlands’ World Cup group games, including two as a centre-forward..
However, there is still some risk in his signing, given that none of his 13 club goals this season have come while leading the line – and a Premier League season is not the same as a World Cup group stage.
In any case, United require competition for Martial, or perhaps more accurately, cover. Ten Hag has done an excellent job of providing this in most areas of the pitch, particularly in midfield.
The arrival of Antony at Old Trafford increased competition on the wings for United, with Jadon Sancho suffering as a result. Ten Hag stated shortly after Antony’s arrival on deadline day, “It’s good that there is competition..
“I think it’s natural in a top club – this situation has to be there,” he added. You must push players to their limits. I’m sure they are happy with it as well.
“We require players. You can’t play all of the games with the same people. You must manage it. “Who you need for specific games, to keep them fit and in shape.”
Ten Hag later admitted that he is “impatient” for the rebuild to begin, but he understands that it will take time. However, he will have the opportunity to accelerate the process in January..
After spending £225 million in the summer, his first task will be to persuade the board – who are “exploring alternative strategies” for the club after putting it up for sale – to give him that extra bit of money to help United secure a top-four spot and mark his debut season as a success..
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