Both Kane and Rice were on United&aposs shortlist of targets at one time or another and both left their clubs this summer. However, Kane was sold to Bayern Munich while Rice joined Arsenal.
After missing out on the Englishmen, Ten Hag turned his attention to other targets with the likes of; Rasmus Hojlund, Sofyan Amrabat, Andre Onana and Mason Mount joining in the window. In total, the Reds brought in seven fresh faces either on loan or permanently.
On his own podcast for Sky Sports, Neville claimed United needed to add other talent to their squad if they wished for a title challenge this summer. He explained: “I was worried at the start of the season.
“There was this feeling Manchester United had got their business done early in the transfer window and that was good, but I was concerned the players they had brought in wouldn&apost improve them from last season. I never thought for one second they would challenge Manchester City and Arsenal from the players they brought in.
“That would have needed a Harry Kane-type signing or Declan Rice, as an example. They didn&apost have the money to do those types of signings.
“They&aposre not very good at the moment. There&aposs no hysteria. I went to the Brighton game as a fan thinking: &aposCould I be surprised?&apos
“You&aposre always optimistic. I have never walked over that forecourt at Old Trafford and not been optimistic because that&aposs the job of a football fan going to any ground where you support your team.
“But 72,000 Manchester United fans in that stadium, who are informed and know Brighton and know their current team, I don&apost think any of them were surprised at what they saw. Before the game there was that feeling of, &aposLet&aposs see what happens&apos, &aposTake a point&apos, those sort of comments speaking to people as you go in.”
United would end up losing 3-1 on Saturday as goals from Danny Welbeck, Pascal Gross and Joao Pedro ended the match as a contest. The Reds have lost three of their opening five matches and travel to Bayern Munich on Wednesday night in the Champions League.
One of the stand-out kits of the new season, the base colour of the adidas shirt is green with white stripes and maroon lines ensuring United will boast one of the most eye-catching shirts in the game for the 2023/2024 campaign.
