Ten Hag confident in attracting top talent this summer

Man United manager Erik ten Hag gestures during their Premier League match against Aston Villa at Old Trafford | Photo Credit: Imago [Andrew Yates / Sportimage]

FOOTBALL Ten Hag confident in attracting top talent this summer

Shafic Kiyaga 10:50 - 13.05.2023

"I see a big difference in comparison with last year," Ten Hag said. "Now many players see the project, what's going on, the dynamic and the ambition."

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has said that despite the uncertainty surrounding the club's ownership, they can still attract quality players this summer.

This comes after the Dutchman found it difficult to convince players to move to Old Trafford when he took charge at the end of last season.

"I see a big difference in comparison with last year," Ten Hag said. "Now many players see the project, what's going on, the dynamic and the ambition."

Last summer, Manchester United signed midfielder Casemiro from Real Madrid for £70m, as well as midfielder Christian Eriksen, forward Antony and defenders Lisandro Martinez and Tyrell Malacia during the summer transfer window.

However, Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo, who was heavily linked with a move from PSV Eindhoven in December, opted to move to Liverpool instead.

Man United is up for sale, with Qatari Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani and Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos Group are the two main parties looking to take control, and the Glazer family, the current owners, have yet to name a preferred bidder.

Manchester United are currently fourth in the Premier League with four games left, although Liverpool is only a point behind with three matches remaining.

Ten Hag believes that the team can take confidence and belief from their performances this season, saying "we have proven we've beaten the best teams in the world."

He also stressed the importance of high standards, stating that "it's a high demand, so it needs high standards. The players and me need to take responsibility for it."

One player whose future at the club is uncertain is goalkeeper David de Gea. The 32-year-old is in talks over a new contract, but there have been reports that he may not be first choice next season.

Ten Hag, however, does not believe that de Gea's age is a factor, stating that; "I don't think that's a reason because David is so experienced.

“I can think about a thousand and one reasons but I don't think that's the reason."