Ashworth Outlines Objectives for Manchester United
Erik ten Hag has been briefed on his objectives by Manchester United’s sporting director, Dan Ashworth, as the 2024/25 season draws near. The Guardian reports that Ten Hag is not under immediate pressure to secure a top-four finish. Instead, the focus for the club is on enhancing both on-field performance and off-field standards. The club’s higher-ups, including Ashworth, are demanding better results while recognising that a comprehensive overhaul of football operations is necessary. This emphasis highlights the previous shortcomings experienced under the Glazers, alongside their former executives, Ed Woodward and Richard Arnold, who struggled to steer the club effectively. Manchester United are committed to establishing long-term success and are keen to avoid repeating last season’s disappointing performance, where they finished eighth in the Premier League—marking their lowest position in the league’s history. With Jason Wilcox now serving as technical director, the club aims to refine its style of play. This reflects a substantial investment in the squad and a desire for a more coherent footballing identity.
Injuries severely affected United’s performance last season, which is why the club has opted for a shorter pre-season this year. Unlike last summer’s eight pre-season matches, this year’s schedule includes only six games, with the Community Shield against Manchester City on August 10 marking the beginning. The addition of new signings, such as Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee, is expected to strengthen the squad, provided they stay fit and integrate well. Ten Hag’s remit includes addressing the tactical and strategic needs of the team, aligning with Ashworth’s vision for a rejuvenated approach to football at Old Trafford. The club is looking to implement a style that reflects their significant investment in players and to build a squad capable of competing at the highest levels consistently.
Mejbri Set to Depart Old Trafford
Manchester United are preparing for another player departure as part of their summer reshuffle. Following the exits of Alvaro Fernandez, Donny van de Beek, Willy Kambwala, and Mason Greenwood, Hannibal Mejbri is the latest player expected to leave the club. The 21-year-old midfielder had a challenging loan spell at Sevilla last season. Mejbri departed Manchester in January, seeking more game time after struggling to secure a regular place under Erik ten Hag. However, his stint in Seville did not meet expectations. In 20 matches since his arrival, Mejbri featured in just six, making only one start and five substitute appearances, which resulted in a total of just 101 minutes on the pitch.
Upon returning to Manchester, Mejbri is unlikely to secure a significant role in the first team for the upcoming season. As such, he is actively seeking a move away from Old Trafford. Recent reports from Africafoot suggest that FC Copenhagen and Rangers have shown interest in the young midfielder. Rangers’ interest is reportedly a result of watching Mejbri during a recent pre-season friendly, highlighting their ongoing scouting efforts and desire to strengthen their squad with promising young talent.
The situation underscores Manchester United’s ongoing efforts to streamline their squad and focus on players who align with their long-term vision. With Mejbri’s departure anticipated, the club continues to refine its roster as they prepare for the new season.
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