Five Manchester United issues Erik ten Hag still needs to solve including Cristiano Ronaldo saga

23.07.2022 - 06:51 / manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Manchester United's tour of Thailand and Australia could not have gone much better.

Their performances against Liverpool, Melbourne Victory and Crystal Palace have shown no signs of a hangover from their disastrous 2021/22 campaign. United have been scoring goals for fun and they've only conceded twice in three outings.

Despite their slow start to the transfer window, United have started making solid acquisitions. Tyrell Malacia and Christian Eriksen have already arrived and an agreement has been reached with Ajax for the transfer of Lisandro Martinez.

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However, although it is mostly rosy for Erik ten Hag, there are still some issues that need addressing sooner rather than later. MEN Sport has taken a look at five problems the Dutchman will be looking to resolve.

Talk before the United pre-season tour was dominated by the future of Cristiano Ronaldo. Last season's top goalscorer has so far missed the preparations due to family reasons.

However, it is known that the Portuguese ace wishes to leave Old Trafford. In his absence, Anthony Martial has staked his claim to be the starting striker next season.

It would appear that most Champions League clubs would be unwilling to fork out for Ronaldo and with a year remaining on his deal, the only option would be for him to remain in Manchester. Whatever happens, Ten Hag needs answers.

United's number one transfer target is Frenkie de Jong. Talks to bring the Dutchman to Old Trafford haven't gone smoothly.

Having agreed a deal in principle with Barcelona, United's hierarchy are now struggling to persuade De Jong to leave La Liga for the Premier League. With each passing day the new season edges closer and Ten Hag may need to start