Despite the ongoing criticism of the Glazer family’s ownership, the Red Devils have consistently shown a willingness to spend on new players and former Man United legend Gary Neville has questioned the worth of the new signings made by his former club.
This summer was no exception, as they made significant investments in talent, including the acquisitions of Andre Onana, Mason Mount, and Rasmus Hojlund, which collectively cost them over £170 million ($211 million).
However, in the 2023–24 season under the management of Erik ten Hag, Manchester United has had a less than ideal start, managing to secure only six points from their first five Premier League matches.
This has led to ongoing concerns and doubts about the club’s overall direction, both on and off the field.
Additionally, a protracted takeover process has been unfolding in the background, further adding to the uncertainty surrounding the club’s future.
Former Red Devils defender Neville has told Sky Sports of the issues holding United back: “There is no Manchester United fan I know, that has got a brain, that is most angry with Erik ten Hag. What they want really is a change of ownership and they want stability and they want a group of players that are committed. And I don’t think the players aren’t committed. I just wonder how good they are. That is my concern.
“There are players there that can step up. But the amount of money Manchester United have spent on that squad, it should have been a lot better. They’ve signed Onana, Hojlund and Mount. Does that make them better than what they were? Hojlund has got promise, but I feel for him a little bit.
“He has been asked to carry the whole of the team in some ways. Let’s see what happens but there are concerns, definitely, and concerns from the fans and concerns generally within the club. It doesn’t look right at this moment in time and it needs to stabilise.”
In their most recent match at home, Manchester United faced a setback, succumbing to a 3-1 defeat against Brighton. Now, they must regroup and prepare for a high-stakes Champions League showdown against Bayern Munich, the reigning Bundesliga champions, at the Allianz Arena this coming Wednesday.