AFP, Manchester, United Kingdom Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, stated that he will need to be “creative” after being unable to sign another striker during the January transfer window due to budgetary constraints.
After spending more than £200 million during the summer transfer window, United was unable to bolster its roster since the Red Devils were nearly at the expenditure cap set by the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules (PSR).
Ten Hag stated, “I think it’s not a secret that I wanted a striker extra,” following United’s thrilling 4-3 victory over Wolves on Thursday.
“Because with the injury of (Anthony) Martial we don’t really have back-up there, but it was not possible because we have to match the FFP (financial fair play) rules.”
In the Premier League, English teams spent a total of just £100 million during this quiet window, with several being restricted by PSR.
Earlier in the season, Everton was deducted 10 points for son at the conclusion of the 2021–2022 season for surpassing the allowed losses of £105 million over a three-year period.
“FFP has certain drawbacks,” Ten Hag continued.
“So, to make space for FFP, you actually have to sell players and you have to sell good players and I don’t think that’s the way how you build a team.”
At Molineux, United was saved by 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo after they had let a two-goal lead against Wolves slip away in the closing minutes.
Marcus Rashford, an England international, scored after just five minutes, repaying Ten Hag’s faith in him.
After spending two nights out in Belfast, Rashford missed training last week and was fined.
Rasmus Hojlund swiftly increased the advantage for the visitors in what was maybe the greatest first 45 minutes this season from Ten Hag’s team.
Pablo Sarabia’s penalty gave Wolves a late goal, but Scott McTominay gave United back a two-goal advantage.
But when Pedro Neto and Max Kilman scored in the last five minutes plus stoppage time, the visitors appeared ready to give up the victory.
But in the 97th minute, Mainoo had the last word thanks to an incredible solo run and finish that had Hojlund refer to his colleague as a “generational talent.”
“A little irritated that we occasionally turn off, but ultimately quite delighted for us. Kobbie Mainoo is a talent spanning generations. The Dane, who has now scored four goals in his past five outings, felt that he performed well.
“It’s very cool to have other young players around the team and hopefully we can set an era for the club and be here many years together.”