New Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has put his players into four groups, including "underperformers" as he plots his Old Trafford overhaul, according to reports.
It was announced yesterday that the Dutchman will take over at the Premier League outfit once he has finished the current season with Ajax. Ten Hag will be under no illusions as to the task that faces him and deciding who to keep and who to axe will be key to his success.
The current crop of United stars have copped major criticism for their performances and their efforts throughout the season. Ten Hag has, according to the Daily Mail, begun categorising his players as he looks to decide which players are going to be key parts of his long-term thinking.
One of those sections is players he believes are currently at their peak. Names like Bruno Fernandes and Raphael Varane fall into that category. The Portuguese star joined in January 2020 before Varane arrived 18 months later. The Frenchman has claimed World Cup and Champions League success prior to his Manchester move.
Ten Hag also has players who he believes are 'entering their peaks' and is hoping to continue their development. These include Scott McTominay and Marcus Rashford, two players who have been criticised or questioned this term. Rashford's form has dipped massively and there has been talk of him seeking pastures new.
The England forward has been in and out of the starting XI under interim boss Ralf Rangnick with his contract winding down. United are facing a potential striker exodus this summer and will hope to retain Rashford's services. Ten Hag has also identified players whom he believes have bright futures.
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Jadon Sancho, a marquee summer signing from Borussia Dortmund, took time to settle but has been one of the team's more impressive performers this term. Hannibal Mejbri, Alejandro Garnacho and James Garner are also tipped for big things with the former making a cameo in the recent Liverpool loss.
There is no space on the reported list for Harry Maguire or Cristiano Ronaldo. The United skipper has been in the spotlight throughout the season whilst Ronaldo's future remains uncertain. The forward returned in the summer and, whilst scoring regularly, has been accused of altering the club's style and may struggle under Ten Hag's philosophy.
The Dutchman has said following his arrival:“ It is a great honour to be appointed manager of Manchester United and I am hugely excited by the challenge ahead. I know the history of this great club and the passion of the fans, and I am absolutely determined to develop a team capable of delivering the success they deserve."
