Next Man Utd signing named as pundit explains how Ten Hag compares to Sir Alex Ferguson, Jose Mourinho

Following a dismal season the previous year, the Red Devils turned to the Dutchman over the offseason. Indeed, despite United placing sixth, the club allowed Ten Hag to buy six new players for well over £200 million.

And the early signs are promising. After recovering from two defeats in their first two Premier League games, United has subsequently defeated Arsenal, Liverpool, and Tottenham. And it’s clear that Ten Hag’s influence is starting to have an effect.

Indeed, a win over Aston Villa might propel United into the top four for the first time since Ten Hag took control. And, despite Jamie Carragher’s prediction of disappointment at the conclusion of the season, that would be a significant indicator of their improvement.

The next chapter of United’s rebuilding is already begun, with plans for the January window in the works. United is apparently looking for a new right-back, with Sunday’s Transfer Gossip revealing a definitive decision on the future of Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

In addition to a new right-back, United is seriously considering goalkeeper options. David De Gea’s contract expires at the end of the season, but United has a one-year option on it.

And it’s no surprise that their interest in Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa is growing by the week.

Hasselbaink wants Manchester United to hire a new striker.
While admiring Ten Hag’s work, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink believes a fresh 20-goal striker must be their next transfer priority.

And, after comparing Ten Hag’s personality to that of Jose Mourinho, the last United manager to win a title, and Sir Alex Ferguson, Hasselbaink believes the club is on the correct track.

The former Leeds and Chelsea player told the Daily Express: “I think it’s too soon [for United to be title contenders].” I believe [Ten Hag] will get it right, but I believe he will require a few more transfer windows.

“He has a clear notion of how he wants to play, and what I like about it is that it is his way, and it doesn’t matter who you are, but you follow or you’re out.” All of the great managers have it – Ferguson, Mourinho. It’s their style.

“They’re more sturdy at the rear, though I don’t think they’re finished yet.” What they excel at is working hard in the front to avoid having to defend a lot at the back. I still believe they need to accomplish a lot in the midfield.”

When asked what they should prioritize next, he said, “They need a big striker or a striker who doesn’t have to be huge but who is going to score 20-plus goals.”

“However, they’re on the correct track. They’re taking the appropriate steps. They’re playing attractive football, or they’re attempting to. They’re controlling the ball a lot more than in prior years, which is something they couldn’t accomplish before. They did not do that. And they’re doing more of it, but they’re still a long way from challenging Man City.”

Ronaldo’s replacement will be sought by United.

Finding a long-term replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo will be a priority for Manchester United in the coming months. The experienced Portuguese star pushed to go throughout the summer, and it is still possible that he will move during the winter window.

For that reason, our exclusive indicated that a January return to one of his former clubs is still a real possibility.

Long term, though, Ronaldo will not be a part of United’s future. Ten Hag has already begun preparing his team for life without him by assisting Marcus Rashford in regaining his best form. While Ten Hag has hinted that Ronaldo could continue to play, they are already looking for long-term successors.