Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, has given a warning to the fans of the club to prepare for a slow start to the upcoming season. This caution comes as the team’s key players adjust and get back into rhythm after various international commitments that kept them away from the preseason tour in the U.S. Players like Bruno Fernandes, Lisandro Martínez, and Alejandro Garnacho were absent due to their involvement in international tournaments. This absence has made it challenging for the team to work on their game model and establish certain patterns in their play.
In addition to the absent players, Ten Hag is also facing injury concerns for the upcoming matches. Players like Leny Yoro and Rasmus Højlund are expected to miss the start of the season, while others like Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw, Victor Lindelöf, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka are doubtful for the upcoming Community Shield match against Manchester City. This could leave United with a limited number of fit senior defenders, raising concerns about the team’s defensive capabilities at the start of the season.
Despite the importance of winning the Community Shield and setting a positive tone for the season, Ten Hag has emphasized the need to manage risks and avoid further injuries to the players. The manager highlighted the impact of injuries on the team’s performance last season and expressed his desire to keep the players fit and available for crucial matches. This cautious approach reflects the pragmatic mindset of the manager, prioritizing the long-term fitness and success of the team over short-term victories.
Despite the challenges and uncertainties surrounding the team’s preparation for the new season, there are high expectations from both the fans and former players. Speculation over Ten Hag’s future was put to rest with a new contract extension, signaling the club’s faith in his abilities. Former United striker Robin van Persie has also expressed his confidence in Ten Hag and his assistant Rudd van Nistelrooy to bring greater success to Old Trafford. Van Persie’s endorsement highlights the belief in the manager’s capabilities to lead the team to a title-winning season.
Ten Hag’s tenure at Manchester United has been marked by incremental progress, with two cup wins in his first two seasons but a league title remaining elusive. Despite the setbacks and challenges, there is a sense of optimism and determination within the team to work towards achieving greater success under the manager’s guidance. The players’ willingness to work hard and adapt to the manager’s style of play bodes well for the future, as the team aims to overcome obstacles and make strides towards securing a league title.
The road ahead for Manchester United under Erik ten Hag’s leadership may be challenging, but there is a sense of resilience and determination within the team to overcome obstacles and achieve success. With a cautious approach to managing risks and injuries, coupled with high expectations from fans and former players, the team is gearing up for a season that promises excitement, challenges, and opportunities for growth. As the new season kicks off, all eyes will be on Manchester United as they strive to rise to the occasion and realize their potential under the guidance of their astute manager.
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