“We have to deal with it” – Erik ten Hag says Manchester United are not 100% ready for the new season yet

The Red Devils kick-off their new campaign against Fulham tonight…

Manchester United are set to begin the 2024-25 season tonight but manager Erik ten Hag has revealed that his side isn’t 100% ready. The Red Devils kick-off the new Premier League campaign against Fulham at Old Trafford, looking to start afresh on a positive note following a disastrous top-flight run last time.

After mixed results in the pre-season, United were involved in the Community Shield last weekend against Manchester City which they lost 7-6 on penalties after the sides drew 1-1 in normal time. Now, the league campaign is upon them, but Ten Hag says they are not fully ready for the new challenge yet.

In his press conference ahead of their season-opener against Fulham, he said:

“The team is not ready but the league starts. There are more managers who definitely have this problem but we have to make a start. We can’t hide from it. We can’t run away from it. We have to deal with it.”

Ten Hag mentioned how international tournaments such as Euros and Copa America kept players busy during the summer, followed by the pre-season games, hinting that many in his squad haven’t really got enough time to rest and recuperate since the culmination of last season.

Manchester United have a point to prove this season

Last season was statistically Manchester United’s worst in the Premier League era. For all the promise shown during Erik ten Hag’s first season as their manager, the Red Devils flattered to deceive big time, only mustering a sixth-place finish. Now, the side has a point to prove here.

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