Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is concerned with his side's woeful form
Manchester United’s struggles in front of goal last season – Marcus Rashford excluded – prompted Erik ten Hag to prioritise a striker signing in the summer transfer window. But the Dutchman’s goalscoring problems have leaked into the new campaign, bringing his Mason Greenwood stance under the microscope.
Hopes were high heading into the 2023/24 season. Greenwood drama and unsuccessful Harry Kane pursuit aside, Ten Hag appeared to have a strong attacking department at his disposal.
Rashford, coming off a career-best campaign, had just signed a new long-term contract worth ยฃ400,000 a week.
Meanwhile, Rasmus Hojlund became the most expensive striker in United’s history, joining in a ยฃ72million deal from Atalanta.
Amad Diallo had returned after a successful loan at Sunderland, and the bar was also relatively low for Antony, Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho and Facundo Pellistri to enjoy improved seasons.
Yet, United continue to be short on goals. Ten Hag’s side have found the net just 13 times in their opening nine games in all competitions. Make that seven in as many Premier League outings.
It perhaps goes to show why Ten Hag was reportedly keen to see United reintegrate Greenwood into his squad before outside backlash forced a U-turn on the club’s initial decision.
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United chief executive Richard Arnold was claimed to have informed staff at the club that the plan was for Greenwood to return to the fray at the start of the campaign.
However, the leaked news sparked significant disapproval from domestic abuse charities and much of the online fanbase.
Greenwood was arrested in January 2022 after allegations emerged on social media via images, videos and voice notes. The 21-year-old forward strongly denied any wrongdoing.
He was later charged with attempted rape, assault and coercive and controlling behaviour but continued to profess his innocence.
Charges were dropped in February of this year when United launched a six-month probe into his future, during which they reportedly decided to offer Greenwood the chance to restart his Old Trafford career.
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After the U-turn, Arnold claimed that he was satisfied Greenwood wasn’t guilty of the allegations to which he was subjected and would, therefore, help him continue his career elsewhere.
A deadline-day loan to La Liga outfit Getafe followed, where he has made four appearances without a goal – three times off the bench and one start.
With Rashford out of sorts, Hojlund still settling, and Antony and Jadon Sancho unavailable for a large section of the early campaign, Ten Hag is missing the attacker’s instinct Greenwood showcased before his suspension.
And the former United No 11 could test the club’s resolve if he rediscovers his best form and resumes his upward trajectory in Spain this term, given he will still be under contract beyond next summer.
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