Erik ten Hag putting in foundations for bright Manchester United future

Optimism is returning to Old Trafford and manager Erik ten Hag deserves plenty of credit for the change in fortunes at Premier League giants Manchester United.

Even if the Red Devils do miss out on the league title this season, Ten Hag has the foundations in place to help United return to the top of English football.

First Silverware Adds To Feel-Good Factor
 

While winning the EFL Cup during Sir Alex Ferguson’s hay day at Old Trafford was a regular occurrence, ending the six-year wait for silverware to lift the trophy was a big deal for United this season. The Red Devils are in the mix for the Premier League title at +3000 in the latest football odds and ending the wait for a trophy will have boosted confidence in the squad going into the latter stage of the season. Newcastle United were extremely motivated to end their own wait of 68 years for a trophy but United got the job done at Wembley to come out on top in the EFL Cup final 2-0.

Returning to Wembley was an important step for the development of this United side under Ten Hag, and their ability to get the win under pressure against an improving Newcastle side will have delighted the Dutch tactician. For a manager who saw his side suffer defeat in their first two Premier League games of the season against Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford, Ten Hag and his team have come a long way. The 7-0 defeat against Liverpool was a hugely disappointing display, but it's likely to be a minor blip and serves as a reminder of why the squad still needs significant investment. 

Foundations To Build On

Even if United don’t manage to add any further silverware to their collection this season, there are systems in place in the side to bring sustained success down the line. Ten Hag was constrained somewhat in the January transfer market on who he could bring in, despite the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo at the end of last year. Even with limited funds, the manager was able to add to his squad and has still been able to deliver results on the field.

Wout Weghorst and Marcel Sabitzer both arrived on loan deals and while their long-term future at Old Trafford is unlikely, the pair should be able to do a job for the Red Devils until the end of the season. The duo were added to a squad that saw a host of new faces arrive over the summer but has seen significant improvement from players that were at Old Trafford last season. Marcus Rashford has been a revelation for United this season, Luke Shaw has progressed and veteran keeper David de Gea has produced some excellent performances domestically and in Europe.

Ten Hag is likely to get more financial backing in the summer to build on the sterling work he has already been able to achieve over recent months. After years of struggle to keep up with the likes of reigning champions Manchester City, United has started to narrow the gap and exciting times should lie ahead for the red side of the city.
 

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