Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag revealed on Friday that financial fair play (FFP) regulations would hinder the club’s efforts to sign a new striker during the January transfer window to fill the void left by Anthony Martial’s extended absence.
Martial, who underwent surgery for a groin injury, is expected to be sidelined until April. Despite the need to reinforce the squad, United, like several other top English clubs, is more focused on reducing its roster in compliance with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules.
Ten Hag stated, “I looked, but there is no space. No space on FFP to do something about this lack of quantity in the striker position.”
While acknowledging the challenge posed by Martial’s absence, the manager highlighted the presence of Marcus Rashford and other creative alternatives. Ten Hag addressed the media for the first time since Omar Berrada’s appointment as United’s new chief executive, a significant move since British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe acquired a 25 percent stake in the club for $1.3 billion.
Regarding Berrada’s arrival, Ten Hag said, “It gives spirit in this whole club. Everyone notices that this club is going into a period of changes, but it’s because we want to achieve high targets, so standards have to change.”
Emphasizing the ongoing transformation at the club, the Dutchman expressed his satisfaction with the support received. United’s immediate focus is on the FA Cup tie against Newport on Sunday, with Altay Bayindir expected to make his debut in goal.
“Yeah, he will be in the goal,” confirmed Ten Hag regarding the former Fenerbahce goalkeeper. “He played in a big club in Turkey under big pressure, so he knows how to deal with it. We were all very convinced when we brought him into this club… We’re looking forward to Sunday. Altay, very motivated, of course, and he can’t wait for this moment.”
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