Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag, known for his meticulous approach, would have undoubtedly been strategizing a plan for Mason Greenwood’s reintegration into the team. Ten Hag had shown support for Greenwood’s return and had been in contact with the forward during the club’s internal investigation. Despite Greenwood’s suspension in January 2022, Ten Hag saw him as a viable attacking option, capable of delivering 5-10 goals this season. However, both United and Greenwood have now mutually decided it would be best for him to continue his career elsewhere.
From a purely playing perspective, Greenwood’s departure leaves a void in the attacking lineup. Ten Hag may have accounted for Greenwood’s goals in his plans, but now the pressure falls on the other forwards in the squad. United’s financial constraints, highlighted by their recent fine for failing UEFA’s ‘break-even’ test, make it difficult for them to enter the transfer market for another attacker. Additionally, their midfield weaknesses, exposed in the first two games of the season against Wolves and Tottenham, make addressing that area a priority.
With Rasmus Hojlund, the £72 million striker, still managing his back problem and not yet making his debut, Greenwood’s absence further intensifies the pressure on him to perform once he is fit. Anthony Martial, United’s other center forward option, has a track record of injuries, making him unreliable, and the club is open to offers for him. This places even greater burden on Marcus Rashford, who scored 30 goals last season, to replicate that feat. Other players like Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho, and Antony must also step up and contribute more, especially with Greenwood’s departure eliminating competition for their positions.
There is a clear expectation for United’s front line and midfield, including captain Bruno Fernandes, to improve their goal-scoring this season. Scoring was a significant issue last season, but United managed to secure a third-place finish, win a domestic cup, and reach a final. However, replicating that success without a substantial increase in goals will be challenging. The early signs haven’t been promising, with toothless performances against Wolves and Spurs. Mason Greenwood’s absence means that United will have to find solutions within their current squad.
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