Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has invested heavily in new players during his tenure at Old Trafford. Over his two seasons, he has spent £210 million on his first five signings. Despite the significant outlay, none of these recruits have cemented their place as first-team regulars. This raises questions about their future with the club.
Tyrell Malacia: A Promising Start Marred by Injury
Tyrell Malacia was ten Hag’s inaugural signing, arriving from Feyenoord for £13 million. The young defender showed promise in his debut season, making 39 appearances across all competitions. However, his progress was halted by injuries that kept him out for the entire following season. With two years left on his contract, Malacia must prove his worth in the upcoming season to secure his future at Old Trafford.
Christian Eriksen: A Veteran’s Journey
Christian Eriksen, a familiar face in the Premier League, joined Man Utd after a brief stint with Brentford. The Danish playmaker, known for his time at Tottenham and Inter Milan, signed on a free transfer following his recovery from a cardiac arrest suffered during Euro 2020. Despite making 72 appearances, Eriksen’s influence waned towards the end of last season, and he now faces speculation about a potential move away, with just one year left on his contract.
Lisandro Martinez: A Beacon of Hope
Argentine defender Lisandro Martinez, the first big-money signing under ten Hag, cost the Red Devils over £56 million. Despite initial skepticism, Martinez became a crucial part of United’s defense, making 45 appearances in his debut season. However, like Malacia, his second season was plagued by injuries, limiting him to just 14 games. If he remains fit, Martinez is expected to play a pivotal role in ten Hag’s plans next season.
Casemiro: A Champion’s Struggle
Casemiro’s arrival from Real Madrid for £70 million brought high expectations. The Brazilian midfielder, a five-time Champions League winner, had a solid debut season, scoring seven goals, including one in the Carabao Cup final against Newcastle. Nevertheless, his influence diminished last season, and he has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford. Saudi clubs are reportedly interested, and United’s pursuit of PSG star Manuel Ugarte could further threaten Casemiro’s position.
Antony: An Expensive Gamble
The most expensive of ten Hag’s initial signings, Antony, joined for £85 million from Ajax, where ten Hag had managed him. The Brazilian winger was seen as a potential replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo. However, Antony has struggled to justify his hefty price tag, scoring only 11 goals in 82 appearances, with just five in the Premier League. Reports suggest that United’s management is open to offloading Antony, although recouping even half of his transfer fee seems unlikely.
Erik ten Hag’s first five signings at Manchester United have experienced varying degrees of success and setbacks. While some, like Lisandro Martinez, have shown potential, others have struggled with form and fitness. As ten Hag looks to solidify his squad, the future of these players remains uncertain, and further changes could be on the horizon at Old Trafford.
