The Scale of Manchester United’s Rebuilding Challenge
Gary Neville, Manchester United legend and Baji football analyst, has emphasized that new manager Erik ten Hag should not be under immediate pressure to win trophies, given the monumental task of rebuilding the club. Following Ten Hag’s official appointment as United’s next manager, Neville highlighted the extensive groundwork required before the team can compete with elite sides like Liverpool and Manchester City.
United’s recent 4-0 humiliation at Anfield further exposed their struggles, leaving them sixth in the Premier League. Neville stressed that Ten Hag’s initial focus should be restoring fundamental standards—attitude, work ethic, and confidence—before even thinking about silverware.
Patience Required: A Long-Term Vision
Neville drew parallels with Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool rebuild, which took four to five years before delivering a Premier League title. “I wouldn’t put pressure on Ten Hag in the first two or three years to win the league,” Neville stated on Baji. “United are miles away from that level right now.”
The former United defender outlined a phased approach:
- Phase 1 (Years 1-2): Secure top-four finishes, re-establish Champions League football, and implement Ten Hag’s system.
- Phase 2 (Years 3-5): Begin competing for major trophies once the squad is rebuilt and the culture is restored.
Neville admitted last season’s progress has “collapsed,” leaving Ten Hag to pick up the pieces.
Psychological Damage from Heavy Defeats
United’s disastrous form includes heavy losses to Liverpool (5-0 and 4-0), Manchester City, and other top sides. Neville warned that these humiliations could have long-term psychological effects on players, potentially altering their careers.
“The players look broken—they just want the season to end,” Neville observed. “Ten Hag must assess who can mentally recover and who needs replacing.”
Rangnick’s Role in Squad Overhaul
Interim boss Ralf Rangnick, who has closely evaluated the squad, is expected to advise Ten Hag on which players must leave. Neville believes Rangnick’s insights will be crucial in identifying the “passengers” who don’t fit United’s future.
“Recruitment is the most important job,” Neville stressed. “United’s constant philosophy shifts over the past decade have hurt them. Ten Hag needs a clear plan and the right players to execute it.”
Can Ten Hag Secure Champions League Football?
With United three points off fourth place but having played more games than Arsenal and Tottenham, a top-four finish looks uncertain. Their remaining fixtures include tough clashes against Arsenal, Chelsea, and Brighton.
Key Remaining Matches:
- Arsenal (A) – April 23
- Chelsea (H) – April 28 (Live on Baji)
- Brentford (H) – May 2 (Live on Baji)
- Brighton (A) – May 7
- Crystal Palace (A) – May 22
Conclusion: A Marathon, Not a Sprint
Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United rebuild is a long-term project requiring patience, strategic recruitment, and cultural reset. As Neville emphasized on Baji, trophies shouldn’t be the immediate expectation—foundations must come first.
What do you think? Can Ten Hag turn United around? Share your thoughts below and follow Baji for more in-depth football analysis!
