Erik ten Hag knew his first summer at Manchester United would be one of seismic change, and the realisation of what a huge task he has on his hands is finally beginning to sink in.
United confirmed in midweek that both Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard would be leaving the club for free when their contracts expire at the end of the month, finally bringing to an end two transfer sagas that should have seen both sold while they still had market value. The news was followed by an announcement Juan Mata would also be leaving at the end of the month.
Instead of generating valuable income, United have once again paid the price for the mismanagement of individuals and a lack of a long-term plan. Ten Hag is the man who will have to pick up the pieces for these past mistakes. There was no surprise at Pogba and Lingard finally leaving the club as free agents, but it did seem slightly surreal that these exits — which seemed so inevitable for so long — had finally been made official.
READ MORE: Manchester United confirm Juan Mata departure
Ten Hag's task is now to replace those who will leave for free, not only in terms of quantity but also in terms of the qualities they bring to the first-team dressing room.
On paper, losing the likes of Pogba, Mata and Edinson Cavani might not have a seismic impact on the starting line-up, but their departures will certainly deprive the playing squad of some priceless characteristics.
Such is his standing among teammates and the respect he commands, Pogba will be one of the biggest losses to the dressing room this summer. The Frenchman has been cited as a role model for many young players at the club and has been a vocal figure throughout his six-year spell at the club.
The 29-year-old also has the authority to hand out advice and feedback to his colleagues, having been a key part of the France side that won the World Cup four years ago.
He and close friend Lingard were two of the most popular members of the first-team and have been credited with bringing plenty of entertainment throughout their time at the club. While it might sound rather trivial, having a happy dressing room is a crucial part of many successful sides.
Cavani, Mata and Nemanja Matic also brought a huge presence to the squad, with teammates respecting the stellar careers they have had. The trio were often on hand to give advice to younger teammates and led by example in regards to their professional approach to match preparation.
Lee Grant, while not a household name, was also respected by his colleagues and was one of the most popular members due to his down-to-earth personality and no-fuss approach to training. He also harboured plenty of respect, given that he was effectively a player-coach from the moment he joined the club.
While it is refreshing to see so many periphery figures leave a squad that was bloated, there can be no denying the enormity of the task of replacing them as people rather than players.
Ten Hag wanted a clean slate this summer and he has certainly got one now.
RELEASED: Grant, Matic, Lingard, Pogba, Mata, Cavani.
