The Dutchman arrived last summer and lifted the mood as the Reds returned to the Champions League spots, lifted the Carabao Cup and reached the FA Cup final. Despite some wobbles in the current campaign, Ten Hag will be confident of improving on his debut year.
Looking further into the future, there are plenty of reasons for United plans to be optimistic about the clubs future if they can combine their current core with impressive signings. Here&aposs a quick hypothetical glance at what Ten Hags squad could look like in five years time:
Goalkeepers
If everything goes to plan, this could end up being the most stable aspect of the team. New number one Andre Onana will be 32, so arguably still in his prime as a goalkeeper. The Cameroon international will hope to be well on his to building a lasting legacy at Old Trafford. Fellow summer signing Altay Bayindir, 30 in 2028, could be a long-term deputy.
Defenders
Of the clubs current crop of centre-backs, Lisandro Martinez is the only one that has a realistic chance of remaining with the club. Though, Ten Hag may believe that a 35-year-old Raphael Varane possesses good experience to have around the squad, the Frenchman is unlikely to be around. Harry Maguire will have gone, as will Victor Lindelof.
The Reds have a collection of young centre-halves eyeing a chance, most notably Teden Mengi, who is spending this season gaining Premier League minutes at Luton Town. Of those currently in the Under-21 side Louis Jackson and Rhys Bennett are both highly-rated.
In terms of full-backs, the prospect of Tyrell Malacia inheriting the left-back spot from Luke Shaw, with Alvaro Fernandez also entering his peak years feels like a sound succession plan.
On the right flank, Aaron Wan-Bisska may have finally seen off competition from Diogo Dalot but a swoop for Bayer Leverkusens Jeremie Frimpong would shore up that area of the pitch and his current team-mate Edmond Tapsoba could join him to flesh out the centre back options.
Midfielders
Midfield will require some turnover, with Casemiro, Christian Eriksen and Bruno Fernandes either hanging up their boots or in the twilight of their careers. Scott McTominay will have moved on but Kobbie Mainoo is set to become a pivotal figure in Uniteds midfield.
Mason Mount will have overcome his early issues to become a calm presence in Uniteds midfield, while Erik ten Hag might have finally landed his man by drafting in an experienced Frenkie de Jong. The likes of Maxi Oyedele, Dan Gore, Hannibal and Omari Forson will hope to be involved.
Forwards
