Manchester United: New problems for the Red Devils with takeover

Manchester United: New problems for the Red Devils with takeover

After a disastrous start to their 2022-23 Premier League run – their worst in the last century, Manchester United made a strong comeback and is now battling for the top 4 places in the Premier League

At one time, it felt like the United was a part of the league title race with a winning streak, but it was too early to conclude. The streak was soon short-lived, but United won the EFL Cup, defeating Newcastle 2-0.

Currently, the team is in the finals of the FA Cup and will face soon-to-be league title winners Manchester City in the finals in June. Their most immense dismay will be the failure to proceed in the European League from the quarterfinals after everyone with Manchester United tickets saw the team bottle the 1st leg after a very comfortable 2-0 lead.

Own goals from Tyrell Malacia in the 84th minute and Harry Maguire in extra time saw the team draw the first leg 2-2 against Sevilla at home. Sabitzer’s brace went in vain in that game, and United faced misery in the return leg to lose 3-0.

While social media went a buzz soon after United’s EFL win, reflecting on the same sentiments that every fan with Manchester United tickets, that United had a chance at the Premier League, pundits shunned these wild claims down.

At that point, United sat 8 points off the league leaders Arsenal in third place behind Manchester City.

But the gaps in their game were out there in the open.

During an interview with Stats Perform, former Manchester United striker Andrew Cole expressed his thoughts on Manchester United’s chances of winning the league. Cole mentioned that for United to secure the title, Manchester City and Arsenal would have to experience a significant decline in form.

Cole highlighted Manchester City’s inconsistent performance throughout the season and Arsenal’s current situation of scraping through matches to achieve results.

 

He suggested that for Manchester United to have a realistic chance of winning the league, both teams ahead of them would need to falter.

Additionally, Cole emphasized that Manchester United would have to win virtually every remaining game until the end of the season to maximize their chances. The statement reflects the competitive nature of the Premier League and the level of consistency required to mount a successful title challenge.

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The United legend faced criticism for his statement from all those with Manchester United tickets, but his claims became true weeks later.

A drawn game against the Spurs and a heartbreaking loss to Brighton brought United back to the ground that they now need to focus on what’s essential – finishing in the top 4 to claim the Champions League spot.

A decent recovery run from Ten Haag

From losing their season opener and his first Premier League game in charge to Brighton and getting massacred by Brentford 4-0 in the second, United under Ten Haag brought great footballing action back to Old Trafford this season.

It all started with the Liverpool game early in the season – a game everyone who had Manchester United tickets would remember. Liverpool went in as favourites to the game considering United’s woeful form but had to fall short to lose 2-1.

Since then, United’s energy and team chemistry has been brilliant, and the likes of Marcus Rashford, Jaden Sancho, Raphael Varane and Casemiro have lit up the Red Devils.

Ten Haag fought the fans!

At the start of the previous season, Manchester United saw a re-awakening as the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo signed for the team for the second stint. When Ronaldo joined the side, it was a dream return for the striker, Machester United’s prodigal son’s return.

The game against Newcastle, where Ronaldo scored a brace last season, will be remembered by everyone who purchased Manchester United tickets that day.

But matters at Old Trafford changed drastically with the appointment of Eric Ten Haag, where Ronaldo was seen as an individual player instead of a team player and was soon benched at the start of the season.

This angered the fans initially, building animosity with the manager, but now, it feels like it was the right move for the club.

Ten Haag has not shied away from speaking about it and reflects that it was a tough decision but the right one in the club’s interest.

According to ESPN, the manager of Manchester United expressed his justification for Ronaldo’s departure, stating that he had valid motives. He acknowledged the evident reasons behind the decision and was fully aware of the potential repercussions.

He added,

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“I have to make decisions regarding advancing the club and the team. That is my job, and that is the responsibility I have—and I have to stand by those decisions. I have to face the consequences and the impact of my decisions, not only in the short term but also for the longer term.”

Since Ronaldo parted ways with the termination of his contract, United has gotten back to a better rhythm of play, and it was a wise move that is now applauded by everyone who comes every week to see the Red Devils play with Manchester United tickets.

The new takeover and the transfer dilemma

In the wake of 2023, towards December last year, the Glazers, the owning family of Manchester United, listed the club up for sale with a deadline of April for prospective bidders. United is by far the biggest club in England and, with the most significant worldwide fanfare, sparked interest worldwide, with buyers from the Middle East and other investors having eyes on the club.

But the takeover is still a work in progress, and it has been nearly a month since there was a clear verdict.

And this is spoiling their chances at a good transfer window.

Unfortunately, the unresolved ownership has hindered negotiations for prospective signings, including notable players like Harry Kane from Tottenham Hotspur, Declan Rice from West Ham United, and Victor Osimhen from Napoli.

Furthermore, the uncertainty surrounding the club’s control, being the largest and most successful team in the Premier League, may also result in the departure of their star striker, Marcus Rashford.

Securing a new striker is a top priority for Manchester United in the upcoming summer transfer window. However, the absence of a new owner poses a challenge in persuading players like Kane or Osimhen to join Old Trafford.

As an agent representing a player of interest to United, negotiating a pay deal with the Glazers, who may not be signing the cheques, raises concerns. There is a risk that any potential deal could be nullified or a new owner could outbid the existing owners and offer more significant financial incentives.

For United’s star boy, Marcus Rashford, it is a tight line where the striker could explore options if his contract situation is not resolved before it expires. After seven years at the club, he’s finally showing promise to become a prospect for the team, with this season being one of his biggest seasons.

The Glazers could proceed with Manchester United’s plans and authorize new signings even if they are in the process of leaving the club. However, considering their potential departure, it is unlikely that they would devote significant time and attention to strengthening Ten Hag’s squad.

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The upcoming season for Manchester United is poised to commence with a sense of uncertainty and disruption, regardless of who assumes ownership. The limited time available during the summer for the new owners to establish their foundations poses challenges and drawbacks.

A stable and settled environment heading into the new campaign is needed for United and its manager, Ten Hag. They play catch-up even before a ball is kicked, which presents a considerable disadvantage. A solid foundation and preparation can help their ability to compete effectively in the upcoming season.

Manchester United tickets for the upcoming season are already out on sale, and reseller platforms are already listing their options for their friendlies as well as the opening games of the Premier League games.

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