Man United ‘six years’ away from title challenge as ‘massive’ Erik ten Hag verdict issued – pundit
Man United are “six years off Man City and Liverpool” ahead of Erik ten Hag’s imminent arrival, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 52-year-old Dutchman has “serious work” ahead in order to “overhaul” the Old Trafford club.
As revealed by Football Insider on Tuesday (11 April), Man United are set to trigger Ten Hag’s £1.7million release clause at Ajax to make him their new manager.
Man United sit seventh in the Premier League and were dumped out of the Champions League at the Round of 16 stage.
Whelan claimed Ten Hag’s “massive problem” is a lack of fight within the Old Trafford dressing room.
He suggested “Tottenham, Arsenal, and even Aston Villa” could challenge ahead of the Red Devils next season.
“Even if Ten Hag decides to overhaul the squad and behind the scenes, three years is not enough time to do that,” he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge.
“They’re about six years off Man City and Liverpool. There is some serious work ahead, and I just don’t see how they’re going to do it.
“Even Chelsea are well ahead of them. Tottenham, Arsenal – even Aston Villa could well have the squad to go beyond Man United next season.
“On paper they’ve got a good squad, but they’ve got no clue how to play. They’re not fighting or working hard for each other – and that’s a massive problem.”
Just a point separates Man City and second-place Liverpool atop this season’s Premier League table.
Man United are some 23 points adrift of the leaders.
The Red Devils’ last honour was a Europa League triumph in 2017.
In other news, pundit claims Ten Hag has already alienated Man United fans after transfer latest.