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Squad Overhaul Signals New Era

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 23rd 2026 at 4:25 GMT by BBC
      Locale: GERMANY, DENMARK, FRANCE, UNITED KINGDOM, PORTUGAL

A Necessary Exodus and Targeted Recruitment

The initial phase of the rebuild focused on a necessary and significant squad overhaul. The departures of high-profile players like Paul Pogba, Edinson Cavani, Jesse Lingard, Juan Mata, and Nani signaled a clear break from the past. These weren't just about clearing space on the wage bill; it was about creating an opportunity to introduce a new generation of players aligned with ten Hag's demanding footballing philosophy.

Crucially, recruitment wasn't driven solely by reputation or perceived star power. Each arrival - Christian Eriksen, Casemiro, Lisandro Martinez, Antony, and Rasmus Hojlund among others - was carefully assessed not only for technical ability but also for their willingness to work hard, embrace a demanding tactical system, and contribute positively to the club's culture. The early signings, particularly Martinez and Casemiro, faced initial skepticism, but have largely proven invaluable.

Evolving Tactics and Pressing the Issue

Ten Hag's tactical approach has been centered around a high-pressing, intensely energetic style of football predicated on quick transitions and relentless pursuit of the ball. The implementation hasn't been seamless. The initial period saw struggles as players adapted to the demanding new regime and the required fitness levels. However, marked improvements in defensive organization and a greater attacking impetus demonstrate a team slowly absorbing the principles. The constant refinement of the press, and counter-pressing capabilities, is a visible hallmark of ten Hag's influence.

It's worth noting the shift towards a more flexible tactical approach, incorporating elements of possession-based football when appropriate, allowing the team to adapt to different opponents and situations. This adaptability, initially lacking, showcases the team's growth under ten Hag's guidance.

Navigating the Complexities - On and Off the Pitch

The journey is far from complete. The psychological scars of past failures remain, and rebuilding trust with a demanding fanbase is an ongoing process. The Premier League's relentless competitiveness places United under constant pressure, and every match is scrutinized intensely.

Beyond the pitch, the club's ownership transition, completed in late 2024, has added another layer of complexity. While the new ownership group has publicly committed to supporting ten Hag's long-term vision, the instability inherent in such transitions can disrupt momentum and planning. Persistent injury problems, particularly within the defensive ranks, have also presented significant challenges, forcing the team to rely on younger, less experienced players at critical moments. This underlines the need for further squad depth.

Looking Ahead: Building a Sustainable Future

While trophies remain the ultimate measure of success, ten Hag's focus extends beyond immediate silverware. The club's current priority is creating a sustainable model for success, built on a strong foundation of young talent, a clear tactical identity, and a positive club culture. The glimpses of genuine progress - the improved defensive resilience, the increased attacking dynamism, and the growing cohesion within the squad - offer a sense of cautious optimism. The next eighteen months will be crucial in determining whether the foundations laid by ten Hag will ultimately translate into a return to the club's former glory, or if another period of rebuilding lies ahead.