Worst to Best: Ten Hag's Man Utd Transfers
Erik ten Hag's arrival at Manchester United in 2022 marked a new era for the club. He inherited a squad lacking direction and discipline, and his ambitious plans involved a major overhaul. Two years in, Ten Hag has made a significant impact on the squad, with his transfer business playing a pivotal role in the club's resurgence.
While some signings have been instrumental in the team's success, others have fallen short of expectations. This article will rank Ten Hag's Man Utd transfers from worst to best, analyzing their impact on the team and their potential for future success.
10. **Worst: ** Cristiano Ronaldo (Loan, 2021-2022)
It's impossible to ignore the elephant in the room. Cristiano Ronaldo's return to Old Trafford was met with widespread excitement, but it ultimately proved to be a disastrous move. Despite scoring goals, Ronaldo's presence disrupted the team's dynamic, hindering the development of younger players and clashing with Ten Hag's tactical vision. His departure was a necessary step for the club's long-term success.
9. **Almost There: ** Donny van de Beek (Loan, 2021-2022)
A player with a wealth of talent, Donny van de Beek's time at Man Utd has been plagued by inconsistency. While he showed glimpses of brilliance under Ten Hag at Ajax, he struggled to find his footing at Old Trafford. His loan spell at Everton was underwhelming, but a potential permanent move could be on the cards if he can regain his form.
8. Not Quite There Yet: Marcel Sabitzer (Loan, 2023)
Marcel Sabitzer's arrival in January was a shrewd move by Ten Hag, adding depth and experience to the midfield. Despite a promising start, injuries and the intense competition for places hampered his impact. A full season could see him become a valuable asset, but he's yet to truly establish himself in the squad.
7. Unfulfilled Potential: Alex Telles (Loan, 2022-2023)
Alex Telles arrived at Man Utd with a reputation for attacking prowess, but he failed to live up to the hype. He struggled to adapt to the demands of the Premier League and was ultimately surpassed by Luke Shaw. His loan move to Sevilla offered him a fresh start, but his future at Man Utd remains uncertain.
6. Solid Backup: Martin Dubravka (Loan, 2022-2023)
Brought in as a reliable backup for David de Gea, Martin Dubravka provided valuable cover during a crucial period. His experience and professionalism were evident in his performances. However, with the arrival of Andre Onana, his chances of playing time are limited.
5. Emerging Talent: Facundo Pellistri (Loan, 2022-2023)
Facundo Pellistri's loan spell at Alaves proved to be a positive step in his development. The young Uruguayan winger showcased his pace and dribbling ability, hinting at his potential to be a future star. With a pre-season under Ten Hag, he could break into the first team and compete for a place in the squad.
4. Promising Addition: Tyrell Malacia (2022)
Tyrell Malacia's arrival was a sign of Ten Hag's commitment to signing young and hungry players. The Dutch left-back has been a revelation, bringing energy and dynamism to the defense. He's established himself as a key player in the squad and has the potential to be a mainstay at the club for many years.
3. Key Acquisition: Lisandro Martinez (2022)
Lisandro Martinez has been a revelation since his arrival from Ajax. His fearless approach, aggressive tackling, and exceptional passing ability have made him an integral part of Ten Hag's defense. His impact has been immediate and his partnership with Raphael Varane has transformed the backline into a formidable unit.
2. The Difference Maker: Casemiro (2022)
Casemiro's arrival in the summer of 2022 was a game-changer. The Brazilian midfielder provided the midfield solidity and leadership that Man Utd had desperately lacked. His experience and composure on the pitch have elevated the team's overall performance, allowing others to flourish around him. He's already established himself as a club legend and a key figure in Ten Hag's plans.
1. **Best: ** Antony (2022)
Antony's arrival was met with excitement, and he's quickly justified the faith shown in him. The Brazilian winger has brought flair, creativity, and a relentless drive to the attack. His direct running, clever movement, and ability to create chances have made him a key player in the team's success. He's a true game-changer and embodies the attacking philosophy that Ten Hag has instilled in the team.
Conclusion
Ten Hag's transfer strategy has been a mixed bag, with some signings exceeding expectations while others falling short. However, the overall impact of his decisions has been positive, leading to a clear improvement in the squad's quality and direction. With a mix of young talent and experienced players, Man Utd are back on the right track, and the future looks bright under Ten Hag's guidance.