Given that we have absolutely no depth for the front 3, that to me is the #1, priority right now. But there is no dream signing like Frenkie for midfield, that's why I see Frenkie as #1. But i do think we've already improved our midfield balance and build up play. Obviously Ten Hag alone is huge, but Martinez will be a big difference, and Eriksen as well.
Based on the test matches? Interesting. To be honest, I didn't see much of improvement already, yes we seem to be a bit more courageous with passing and not as seemingly afraid of possession and there were a few attacking moves that looked like football in 2022 but I thought I shouldn't overestimate that given the character of the matches. I thought we were really bad early 2nd half against Villa. Really discouraged me to be honest. What was your thought on that?
Also just want to note - don't lump Fred in with McTominay as some mediocre player. He's a very good midfielder and has repeatedly showed it! Yes ideally we would sell Donny, loan out Garner, being in a partner for Fred, have Eriksen and Bruno compete and strengthen the front 3 as well. Can't all happen though, or is unlikely. At the end of the day though, it's just about having a squad that the manager feels can achieve what he wants this season. It was never going to be a 1 window rebuild. So if ten hag feels like he is happy enough with the midfielders we have if he can't get Frenkie, then so be it. Our midfield is fine to get top 4 provided we get depth in attack, as i think ten Hag will make a big difference. Frenkie is a player who I think can turn us into title challengers much quicker than anticipated, that's why ten hag is going all out for him.
No need to sell Fred to me, already a fan ^^ But he has his flaws, undoubtedly and I find it pretty interesting of ETH to name him to be capable of playing the anchor role, that most of us think, would then go to FDJ. I mean, Fred and FDJ have completely different skillsets, what kind of role is that?!
I also can't understand people being unwilling to offer players a chance. They play for man united. If the manager feels they have a role to play, then they have a role to play. There are no ifs, ors, buts about it. Ten Hag is the most important man at the club right now and we need to back him and trust his judgement. He will be judged on how he manages the squad and his performances, so there shouldn't be a big outrage at his decision as long as he's doing well on the pitch for us.
I know where you are coming from. Impatience is a very limited good these days. And believe me, my skepticism doesn't originate from that. It is just that we have seen it so many times, players get a clean slate with a new manager, because, lets be honest, it is pretty easy to do. You don't have to sell all your squad, it is easy to communicate and who knows, one or the other might impress. I get that. But some of those players don't have certain qualities. And without them, they will lack output. And even if a manager certainly can have an effect on things, I don't think he can bridge the deepest abysses. I believe in ETH, I think he can create something. But it will take time and you won't get time, when there is no progress to be seen in any way. I am worried, that he relies on a group of players who have shown to be unreliable.