Manchester United are off to an encouraging start to the 2024/25 season with good performances in both competitive games and a win against Fulham.
An improvement on the finish last season, especially in the league, is not just expected, it’s arguably necessary if Erik ten Hag is to remain in charge next year.
Having said that, Manchester United have won a trophy in both seasons under Ten Hag and that’s not something many managers post-Sir Alex Ferguson can claim to have done.
So, what are the expectations this season, especially after a good window that could yet end with a final flourish? Ten Hag has laid it out himself…
Erik ten Hag’s on Manchester United expectation
Man United squad have become tournament specialists under Erik ten Hag and it’s always important to keep a nice thing going, while improving in other areas.
With that view, Ten Hag has laid out his two expectations for United this season, both being related and directly dependent on each other.
In an interview with SUPERSPORT, Ten Hag said everybody at United is “here to win” so one target always has to be winning more trophies, while the last season’s pain point is still strong in his mind.
He said: “We’re here to win at United. We are here to get trophies so this season won’t be different.
“Then we want to keep away from all the injuries because then life is more easier! It’s more easier to achieve the high targets we set. “
United missed their first chance at a ‘trophy’ when they lost to Manchester City in the Community Shield despite putting up a good display while other opportunities will come in the two domestic cups as well as the Europa League, for which they are prime contenders.
One wanted, one unwanted repeat
Ten Hag’s comments echo the sentiment of many fans when he says he would like the repeat of one aspect of last season (trophy) while avoiding the prospect of another (injuries).
Unfortunately, United have already been struck by multiple injuries to first-team players having played just two competitive fixtures.
It reached a point where, after the Fulham game, Ten Hag was just thankful that everyone came through that game without any new issues.
Even still, Harry Maguire had to be subbed off as a precaution after he felt something. Gary Neville has already said injuries can’t become a pattern at United and should remain as a one-off freak last season.
The club has been more cautious with their handling of injured players this season so it should make some difference but if injuries keep piling up at the same pace, questions will be asked.
One thing that every United fan will take no questions asked is trophies!
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