After being appointed as Manchester United’s next permanent manager, Erik Ten Hag will look to make several changes at Old Trafford.
While a lot of players will be shown the exit door, Ten Hag could also give some United players a fresh start while promoting academy graduates.
We’ve taken a look at five United players that could benefit from Ten Hag’s impending arrival at Old Trafford.
Donny van de Beek
When Ten Hag was confirmed to be United’s next manager, we doubt anyone was happier to hear that news than Van de Beek.
The Netherlands international spent two-and-a-half years working under Ten Hag at Ajax and his impressive performances saw him become a Ballon d’Or nominee in 2019.
He then completed a £36million move to United in 2020 but started just four Premier League games during his first 18 months at Old Trafford and is currently on loan at Everton.
“Take Donny. I find that hard, a mortal sin,” Ten Hag told De Volkskrant in December 2021. “If you haven’t had a chance yet, then development will also stall.”
The 25-year-old will now be hoping to rediscover his Ajax form under Ten Hag and finally kick-start his career as a United player.
He’ll also have the opportunity to fill the void left by Paul Pogba, who looks set to leave United when his contract expires at the end of the season.
🇳🇱 New Manchester United signing Donny van de Beek scoring big goals in big games ⚽️ @Donny_beek6 | #UCL pic.twitter.com/1OF5w9mFa0
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) September 2, 2020
Dean Henderson
While David de Gea has been one of United’s best players in the 2021-22 season, he could face an uncertain future under Ten Hag.
The Spain international is regarded as one of the best shot-stoppers in the world but is often rooted to his line and has often been criticised for his poor distribution.
Ten Hag’s Ajax side are renowned for playing out from the back and the manager is reportedly concerned about De Gea’s suitability…