Former England international Chris Waddle has been underwhelmed by Manchester United‘s transfer business in INEOS’ first summer in charge of recruitment.
He isn’t convinced Erik ten Hag‘s latest signings will spark the improvement required of United this term.
“It’s hard for Manchester United and probably hard for the fans. For many years, they dominated,” Waddle told Express Sport on behalf of NewBettingSites.uk.
“The players they wanted also wanted to go to Man Utd, and it was quite easy for them to buy players. Other teams come into the picture now. Arsenal are a big attraction. Manchester City, Liverpool, Aston Villa – London is a pull for Tottenham too. Players have got three or four options. And it’s not just England – there are options abroad.
“Players are not thinking they have to go to Man Utd anymore. It’s not the first draw for them. There are a lot of clubs that can attract players. Erik ten Hag keeps coming back to his former Ajax players. He’s signed seven former Ajax players at Man Utd. Ten Hag obviously thinks they are good players and knows what they are about.
“But are they players that can get Man Utd challenging for the league or even the top four? They’ve [also] got a few injuries which is obviously a problem. I would say it’s been an average transfer market for Man Utd, not exceptional.
“He’s helped the squad and added numbers. They’ve got some really good players, but it’s not a squad that will be really pushing Manchester City for the title.”