Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-02 15:32:36
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is facing a challenge due to financial limitations that prevented the addition of another striker during the January transfer window. Despite his desire to bolster the squad, the Red Devils are close to their spending limits as imposed by the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules (PSR), having spent over £200 million in the summer window.
“I think it’s not a secret that I wanted a striker extra,” said Ten Hag, expressing his disappointment after United’s narrow 4-3 win at Wolves on Thursday. “Because with the injury of (Anthony) Martial we don’t really have back-up there, but it was not possible because we have to match the FFP (financial fair play) rules.”
The Premier League as a whole experienced a quiet window, with English clubs only spending a combined £100 million, as many were also restricted by PSR. Everton faced consequences for exceeding the permitted losses and were docked 10 points earlier in the season.
“There are some disadvantages on FFP,” Ten Hag added. “So, to make space for FFP, you actually have to sell players and you have to sell good players and I don’t think that’s the way how you build a team.”
The match against Wolves showcased the talent within the United squad, with 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo coming to the rescue and securing a win after the team nearly squandered a two-goal lead. Marcus Rashford’s early goal and a quick follow-up by Rasmus Hojlund set the stage for what many described as one of the best performances of the season by Ten Hag’s team.
Despite Rashford’s recent off-field issues, his on-field performance and McTominay’s goal helped maintain United’s lead, until Wolves bounced back with two late goals. However, Mainoo’s remarkable solo goal in stoppage time sealed the victory for United, with Hojlund hailing him as a “generational talent.”
“A little bit annoyed because we switch off a little bit but so happy for us in the end. A generational talent in Kobbie Mainoo. He did well,” said Hojlund, who himself has been in excellent form with four goals in the last five games. “It’s very cool to have other young players around the team and hopefully we can set an era for the club and be here many years together.”
Despite the financial constraints and limitations on adding new players, Ten Hag and his team are looking to rely on the talent within the squad and be creative in their approach to maintain their competitive edge in the Premier League.
