Erik ten Hag defends Man Utd transfer decisions as Dutch coach explains why Red Devils prioritised signing young players in summer window

In an effort to rejuvenate an ageing and underperforming team, United signed younger players with long-term potential this summer, including Joshua Zirkzee, Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro, and Manuel Ugarte.

Ten Hag's job security has been questioned in the past few weeks as United currently sit in the lower half of the Premier League table having won just two of their first five league games. Due to the Red Devils' transfer policy, the Dutchman now has a relatively inexperienced squad to rely on as he looks to the turn their fortunes around. However, Ten Hag has defended United's dealings.

Speaking to the media, Ten Hag said: "Those are the choices we have made in the last two seasons. I understand the impression that many have for Manchester United because the history is so big.

"But those are the choices we have made - and also it has something to do with financials and other restrictions we have to deal with. We made the choice for younger players and you can’t expect them to be at the (top) level.

"We have to improve them and they have to improve themselves and we have to find a team that can be successful on a consistent basis. This team, in the last two years, has shown what they can do with patience. With patience we can win trophies and now we have to get more consistent.

"We are where we are now with this squad. With all the restrictions we had, we have done good work. Now we have to work with the squad and improve. We have a good squad, with young players. We have to improve the team and we have high targets - and we want to achieve those targets for this season and the years beyond."

The Dutchman's job could hinge on United's next few matches. United will be in action on Sunday when they take on Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford. Spurs themselves have endured a tricky start, with Ange Postecoglou's young squad suffering two defeats already.