“I made a very huge mistake during my last two seasons at this club. We made a very bad signings. There where some signings I should have not approved in the first place. But we are looking forward in selling them before this season start”- Erik ten Hag admits key role has been ‘taken away’ from him since Sir Jim Ratcliffe takeover at Man Utd after the disastrous first and second seasons signings as he reveals the players he signed which was a very bad business.
Manchester United has recently made a crucial decision regarding Antony’s future, as highlighted in a recent report. The club’s transfer market activity has been noteworthy, with the acquisition of 18-year-old defender Leny Yoro from Lille for a potential £58.9 million and Joshua Zirkzee for £36.5 million earlier this month. These signings align with United’s strategy to strengthen their squad with young talent.
Alongside new acquisitions, Manchester United has also seen several player departures. Mason Greenwood has transferred to Marseille, and according to ESPN, more exits are likely. Players such as Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelöf, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Scott McTominay, and Christian Eriksen, all with contracts expiring in 2025, are reportedly available for suitable offers this summer. This marks a departure from previous years when the Glazers’ transfer policy often involved retaining players to avoid the cost of immediate replacements.
The shift in ownership to Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the INEOS Group has introduced a new era for Manchester United’s transfer strategy. The club has financed its recent signings by selling current squad members, including Alvaro Fernandez to Benfica for £7.5 million, Donny van de Beek to Girona for up to £7.6 million, Willy Kambwala to Villarreal for nearly £10 million, and Mason Greenwood to Marseille for £26.6 million. This more aggressive approach in the transfer market is a significant change from the previous administration’s tactics.
Joshua Zirkzee’s signing from Bologna for £36.5 million, slightly above his £34 million release clause, was structured to allow staggered payments over three years. This financial strategy highlights the club’s new approach to managing its budget and transfer dealings. Similarly, the arrival of young defender Leny Yoro from Lille for £52.2 million, securing him ahead of Real Madrid, underscores United’s commitment to investing in future talent.
This summer marks the first time Erik ten Hag operates under the new structure implemented by INEOS. His role in scouting and recruitment has become more collaborative, working alongside key personnel like Dan Ashworth, Jason Wilcox, and Christopher Vivell. Ten Hag has expressed his satisfaction with the strengthened foundation and the promising signs of the new system. Speaking to Dutch publication AD via the Daily Express, he emphasized the importance of a robust structure in scouting and transfer policy, noting that much of this responsibility has been delegated to his new colleagues.
The new owners have also involved Ten Hag more in the decision-making process, indicating a more integrated approach to management. With his contract extended to the summer of 2026, Ten Hag is optimistic about the future, stating that the early days under the new regime are very promising. The club’s market knowledge and strategic planning now provide a strong support system for the manager.
Manchester United’s decision to keep Antony as part of their squad reflects their confidence in his abilities and potential contribution to the team. The active transfer market moves and the strategic shift under the new ownership suggest that United is positioning itself for a competitive future, balancing the acquisition of promising young talent with the financial pragmatism of player sales. As the transfer window remains open until 11 PM on August 30, further activity is expected, signaling a dynamic and transformative period for the club.
