Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag can find solace in the emergence of young talents Rasmus Højlund, Alejandro Garnacho, and Kobbie Mainoo amidst an otherwise forgettable season. These three players, all under the age of 21, showcased their potential in a 3-0 victory against West Ham, leaving Ten Hag hopeful for the future.
The sight of Garnacho celebrating his goal in front of the Stretford End, with Højlund and Mainoo alongside him on the advertising boards, represented a glimpse into what could be the foundation of the next successful United team. Although their potential cannot be judged just yet, it was a welcome respite for Ten Hag in an otherwise tumultuous campaign.
Højlund, celebrating his 21st birthday, continued his impressive form by scoring in his fourth consecutive Premier League game. Garnacho also left his mark on the match with two goals, helping United secure their first home league win by a margin greater than one goal this season.
While this victory brought some positivity, it did not come without its drawbacks. The return of defender Lisandro Martínez, after recovering from a foot injury, was cut short due to a knee injury. This setback could prove crucial, as Ten Hag relies on experienced players like Martínez and Casemiro, who recently returned from injury, to solidify the team's performance.
Despite the ups and downs of their season, United still has the FA Cup and a Champions League spot within reach. While Højlund's goals and Mainoo's impressive performances are crucial, the fitness of players like Martínez and Casemiro is equally vital to the team's success.
Ten Hag expressed confidence in the potential of young players like Højlund, Garnacho, and Mainoo, but acknowledged their need for game time and guidance from more experienced teammates. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of adaptability when certain positions become unavailable, highlighting the need for a well-rounded squad.
Finally, Ten Hag is gradually building the team he envisions. Due to injuries, he had to rely on depth players like Hannibal, Pellistri, and Reguilón earlier in the season. However, losing Martínez to another injury would pose a challenge, despite having several center-back options in Raphaël Varane, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelöf, and Jonny Evans. On the other hand, the options to replace Højlund, Casemiro, and Shaw are limited.
Against West Ham, Ten Hag paired Maguire with Martínez in central defense, and while the Englishman had some shaky moments, he played a role in United's first Premier League clean sheet since mid-December, breaking their streak of conceding at least two goals in their previous five matches.
Ten Hag cautioned against celebrating this one victory too much, as consistency is key. Every decision made during games, from swapping players to making split-second choices, requires focus and attention to detail to achieve success at the top level.
As the season progresses, Ten Hag's position as manager will come under scrutiny by the club's new minority owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Ratcliffe's objective is to restore regular success to Old Trafford. The decision regarding Ten Hag's future will serve as an early test of Ratcliffe's regime.
Though Ten Hag faces challenges due to United's early exit from Europe and their struggle to secure a top-four spot, more comfortable victories like this one, coupled with the continued growth of Højlund, Garnacho, and Mainoo, may solidify his place as the club's manager and pave the way for a bright future at Manchester United.
