Manchester United is now considering successors for Ralf Rangnick and has Erik ten Hag on their managerial shortlist. In recent years, the Dutchman has done well at Ajax, helping them re-enter Europe’s elite. So Express Sport will now look at how the Red Devils may line up if they appoint the 52-year-old and spend big on players like Antony, Declan Rice, and Manuel Akanji.
Goalkeeper: De Gea
Dean Henderson was projected to be Manchester United’s starting goalkeeper at the start of the season.
However, after missing the first few weeks of the season due to Covid, he’s failed to find regular playing time.
And it’s because David De Gea has finally returned to his finest form.
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The Spain international has been a shining light this season, approximating the world-class asset he was during the tenures of Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho.
As a result, it’s possible that Ten Hag will continue with De Gea, implying that Henderson will push to depart.
Defense: Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Akanji, Shaw
Aaron Wan-Bissaka, like many other Manchester United players, has had a difficult season thus far.
However, considering his defensive prowess, he might be Ten Hag’s first-choice right-back over Diogo Dalot if he can enhance his offensive game.
Similarly, despite his inconsistency, Luke Shaw is a better left-back pick than Alex Telles.
With Harry Maguire failing, Manchester United is rumored to be interested in Borussia Dortmund’s Manuel Akanji.
If they are able to sign him, he will most likely partner with Raphael Varane at center-back.
Midfield: Rice, Van de Beek, Fernandes
Ten Hag prefers a 4-2-3-1 setup at Ajax.
And, given that he previously managed Donny van de Beek in Amsterdam, the midfielder may have a chance to show what he’s capable of.
Paul Pogba should be allowed to leave on a free transfer, and United can utilize the money saved on his large salary to fund the possible acquisition of Declan Rice.
He’s their main target, and if the major teams start calling, West Ham may be compelled to sell.
Bruno Fernandes, who will play ahead of Rice and Van de Beek, is a good player for United’s future manager to inherit.
Forwards: Antony, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Sancho
Cristiano Ronaldo has already been lauded by Ten Hag.
So, if he decides to stay at United, he’ll most likely start up top as their attacking spearhead.
Jadon Sancho has wowed fans since Rangnick came over as manager, and the former Borussia Dortmund star would play on the left.
Antony might be a good choice on the right.
Ten Hag is the Brazilian manager at Ajax, and a reunion at Old Trafford may be appealing to all parties.
Stam’s Ten Hag admonition
Former United player Jaap Stam recently issued a caution about a potential Ten Hag appointment, saying, “Ten Hag is doing extremely well at Ajax; he makes the team a challenging opponent for everyone in Europe and Holland.”
“He is excellent at both showing the team what to do and improving individual players.”
“At Ajax, he clearly has the funds to build the club with young players.”
“Manchester United would be a different experience for him than what he is experiencing in Holland.”
“He needs to take this next step in his career.”
