The hope and expectation was that by the time Manchester United line-up against Brighton on August 7, it will be a squad shaped in the image of Erik ten Hag.
The Dutchman impressed Old Trafford chiefs during talks prior to his appointment. After years of visionless underperformance, Ten Hag represents a chance for the Red Devils to finally begin operating in a style which is more reminiscent of their elite rivals.
United’s non-international players are expected to report to Carrington on Monday, before the full squad assembles a week later. But frustratingly for the former Ajax boss, Ten Hag looks set to kick-off his reign with zero notable additions.
