United Beyond Manchester

With just seven games left in the Premier League season and at least one FA Cup match remaining (there should be two), we are highlighting three quick things to watch for as this season comes to a close.

1. Youth Involvement

With seven games remaining in the Premier League, Manchester United are 11 points back on Tottenham and Aston Villa in the Champions League race. The 2 points from the past three games have all but ended United’s hopes for joining Europe’s best next season. With less to play for, Erik Ten Hag and the United staff will be keen to see who may join Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho, and Willy Kambwala with the first team next.

As the first team played to a draw against Liverpool, Manchester United’s u18 side thrashed Liverpool’s 9-1. James Scanlon scored within the 1st minute, and it was all United from then on. Ethan Wheatley grabbed a hat-trick to lead the scoring for the young Reds. This type of performance certainly will catch the eye of Ten Hag and his staff, who will have a decision to make as to who may receive their first senior appearance at the end of the season.

2. Erik Ten Hag’s Job

While Ineos seems keen to keep Erik Ten Hag for their first full-season in charge, the recent results and team performances may change their mind. If United has a poor end to the season, Sir Jim Ratcliffe may want to reset the manager as he begins to reset the squad. Erik Ten Hag needs to treat each match as if it could be his last.

I think Ten Hag deserves a chance under new leadership. If United had given up on Sir Alex Ferguson too early, the club’s history may look a lot different…

3. Individual Performances

It’s safe to say nearly every Manchester United player is playing for their future at the club. United are rumored to be interested in center backs, like Jarrad Branthwaite and Jean-Clair Todibo, left backs, like Miguel Gutierrez, center midfielders, like Joao Neves, and forwards, like Michael Olise and Pedro Neto. It is clear that the current squad is not built to challenge for titles and Sir Jim Ratcliffe will be looking for players who fit the club and will help the club return to dominance.

Only a few players, such as Kobbie Mainoo, Rasmus Hojlund, and Kobbie Mainoo are truly safe. Even Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes have been mentioned in talks over possible exits. The remaining few games will be massive for each player if they want to stay at the club and be a part of the rebuild.

Who do you think should make their senior debut? Should Ten Hag be in charge at the start of next season?