Erik Ten Hag States He Is Happy With His Manchester United Squad

On the eve of the new Premier League season the Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has declared he is happy with the state of his squad.

United kick off the new season on Sunday against Brighton at Old Trafford having only signed three new players during the summer transfer window, but Ten Hag has dismissed suggestions his squad are desperate for further new additions.

“I am happy with the squad, I am happy with the signings up until now,” he said at a press conference on Friday. “We are working altogether. I am happy with the current squad and we need the right players.”

The Dutchman was also asked if he was content with his midfield options ahead of the new season in light of United losing Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic and so far not bringing in any replacements. “I think so,” he replied. “As we saw in pre-season, we did pretty well there. We have a good team.”

Despite Ten Hag’s public protestations it is still likely United will add to their squad before the transfer window closes on September 1^st.

One area Ten Hag conceded United did need news faces is up front, and when asked about his striking options, he replied, “We said before, we are still searching to strengthen the squad.”

One player United have attempted to sign all summer is the Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, but despite having a bid accepted for him last month the player remains in Spain.

“We want Frenkie de Jong? I didn’t know! It’s about the right players. I cannot comment on a player contracted to another club. When we have news, we will bring it.”

Ten Hag confirmed the club’s French striker Anthony Martial would not be fit to face Brighton after picking up a minor hamstring injury. “Yes, it is always difficult to say with injuries [how many games he will miss], but I hope it is not for too long.”

When asked if Cristiano Ronaldo was now certain to be in his starting line-up for the Premier League opener, he would only say, “See on Sunday.”

Ronaldo has attracted criticism this week after leaving United’s friendly against Rayo Vallecano last Sunday before the final whistle, but Ten Hag was keen to widen the blame. “There were many players who left early and the spotlight is on Cristiano, that is not right. Do your research.”

The United manager did not have an update on Ronaldo’s desire to leave United, and would only say, “I am really happy. We have a top striker. He is here and is in the squad.”

Ten Hag was keen to stress his excitement at taking charge of his first competitive game as United manager. “We are really looking forward to Sunday, [Brighton] are a good team, a decent team and play attractive football. I like them.”

The last time United faced Brighton was earlier this year in May when they were humiliated by losing 4-0, but Ten Hag said he has not watched that game again. “Last season is last season, I am looking forward. I am preparing the team for the future and Sunday, that’s it.”

“I think we have to look forward to the first game. We want to win every game, and we will be trying to do that from Sunday.”