Crucial Six Matches Await Manchester United
Manchester United are gearing up for Sunday’s FA Cup fourth-round clash following their winter break. It’s been a season of inconsistency for the Reds, but Erik ten Hag will be hoping to instil some stability as his squad enters the second half of the campaign. In their last outing, United were held to a 2-2 draw by Tottenham at Old Trafford, despite having taken the lead twice. Now, they’ll turn their attention to Newport County in the FA Cup before embarking on a crucial stretch of Premier League fixtures. Following the cup tie, United will travel to Wolves, before facing West Ham, Aston Villa, Luton Town, and Fulham. After that, they’ll make the short trip to the Etihad Stadium for a derby showdown with Manchester City.
Considering the fact United fell all the way to eighth place in the Premier League standings, every single match from now until the final day in May will be crucial for Erik Ten Hag. Not only for his team’s chances of reaching the top European competitions next season, but also his job. Should United remain where they are right now, it would be hard to see the Dutchman stay in post come next season.
United Renew Interest In De Ligt As Bayern Exit Looms
Matthijs de Ligt could be on the move this summer, with Manchester United reportedly reigniting their interest in the Bayern Munich defender. The Dutch international is said to be considering his future at the German giants, opening the door for a potential reunion with Erik ten Hag. De Ligt was a standout under Ten Hag during their time together at Ajax, where the young centre-back captained his side to the Champions League semi-finals in 2019. After leaving for Juventus later that year, Ten Hag had hoped to bring De Ligt to Old Trafford in 2022. However, the defender opted to join Bayern Munich instead.
Now, reports suggest the 24-year-old is dissatisfied with his current role at Bayern, having started just four matches this season. He finds himself behind Dayot Upamecano and Kim Min-Jae in the pecking order, and with Bayern linked to Barcelona’s Ronald Araújo, De Ligt may be allowed to depart if the right offer comes in. With three-and-a-half years left on his contract, Bayern are not likely to let him go easily, but *Sky Germany* reports that a summer exit could be on the cards. United, who are in the market for defensive reinforcements, may look to take advantage. Raphaël Varane’s future remains uncertain, while Harry Maguire, despite playing more minutes than expected this season, is still tipped to move on in search of regular football. United’s need for a quality centre-back could see them move for De Ligt, who could be the ideal fit to strengthen the backline.
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