Erik ten Hag has nearly been in charge of Manchester United for two seasons now – and a lot has changed.
When the Dutchman took the reigns at Old Trafford, Manchester United were a club in crisis. In fairness to him, he’s definitely steadied the ship – and has indefinitely improved the squad.
The likes of Rasmus Hojlund, Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho and Lisandro Martinez have all emerged in the Ten Hag era, and are all talents that will remain at the club for, hopefully, years to come.
His signings have been hit and miss, but one was arguably his biggest risk so far as the Red Devils boss.
Exiling David de Gea for Andre Onana was a huge gamble
The decision to shun club legend David de Gea in the summer to bring in Andre Onana from Inter Milan was absolutely massive.
De Gea was under constant fire over the past few seasons, yet has definitely been one of the best Manchester United players in the last decade.
Ten Hag made the call that it was time for the Spaniard to go, and he was sent on his way out after 12 years around Old Trafford – even after winning the Premier League Golden Glove.
It was a seriously big gamble – which now does look to have paid off.
Andre Onana gamble paying off, he’s been class
Particularly in 2024, Onana has been one of Manchester United’s best and most consistent performers. The Cameroonian shot-stopper has had a sea of good displays, which have turned many doubters into firm believers in his abilities.
He put in yet another Man of the Match display against Everton – hardly putting a foot wrong. This has been a recurring theme of late. He’s even now in the running for the Golden Glove himself.
After a shaky start to life around Carrington, it looked like Ten Hag’s risky gamble may have failed – but now we’re beginning to see the player United spent big bucks for. Long may it continue.
from United In Focus https://ift.tt/oeMnAiq