Erik ten Haag says that “top players want to come” to Manchester United this summer and insists that a successful transfer window does not depend on qualifying for the Champions League.
United are in danger of losing their place in the top four after back-to-back defeats to Brighton and West Ham.
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But Ten Hag believes he can lure players to Old Trafford even if he doesn’t offer Champions League football for at least a year.
“I see a big difference compared to last year,” Ten Haag said.
“When I spoke to the players last year there were a lot of reservations and now a lot of players have seen the project, what is going on, the momentum and ambition in the project, especially the quality.
“They’re really keen to come, I’ve noticed that. It seems like last year there were a lot of reservations, a lot of doubt when we approached the players. This year, a lot of quality players really want to come.”
Three wins from United’s remaining four games would be enough to stave off Liverpool’s challenge and secure a place in the Champions League.
Ten Haag is confident his players will be fresh when they face Wolves on Saturday without a week of games but admits his squad are already tired after a campaign that has taken them 57 matches.
“It was pretty clear that was the case but we know the reason behind it,” he added.
“It’s certainly no excuse for this kind of performance but it’s also a reason that the squad looked tired and tired, I could see that. But now we have a week, another week from last week. I’ve noticed around the training ground. Strength. is back. We will give a better physical performance, I am sure.”
Ten Hague also confirmed that David de Gea will definitely start against Wolves despite his mistake in the 1-0 loss to West Ham.
The goalkeeper was at fault for Said Benrahma’s win but the United boss insists his place is not under threat.
“He will definitely play,” Tan Haag said. “I don’t care [to dropping him]”
