Man Utd's pre-season schedule as Red Devils head for Australia
Manchester United are confident of signing Frenkie de Jong, with an announcement potentially coming as soon as this weekend. The Netherlands international is a top target for Erik ten Hag, having previously dazzled under the Dutchman at Ajax. So, with a move to Old Trafford for the 25-year-old expected to go through, it’s now time to have a little bit of fun…
Gone are the days where United were the all-conquering outfit under Sir Alex Ferguson.
But the Scot is still the standard for this football club, something Ten Hag is acutely aware of as he looks to build a dynasty at Old Trafford.
As well as De Jong, United are hopeful of landing his compatriot Tyrell Malacia from Feyenoord - having gazumped Lyon in the race to land the midfielder.
And Ajax pair Antony and Lisandro Martinez, as well as Christian Eriksen, are in their sights, too.
Express Sport will now take a look at how the Red Devils would line up with the quartet in their squad if Ferguson was still manager, using the Scot’s preferred 4-4-2 formation.
Man Utd icon Sir Alex Ferguson would likely have loved to have managed Frenkie de Jong (Image: GETTY)
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Back in 2011, Ferguson knew he needed a replacement for Edwin van der Sar following the goalkeeper’s decision to retire.
And after initially considering Manuel Neuer, who was playing for Schalke at the time, they decided to swoop for David De Gea.
The Spain international’s first year in the Premier League was a rocky one, with the shot-stopper making some errors and losing his place in the team to Anders Lindegaard.
But De Gea was better in his second season, shining as United won the title.
Given he’s been largely consistent in the years since, Ferguson would likely have him as his No 1 if he still ruled the roost.
Ferguson always liked his full-backs to be flying, capable of operating at both ends of the pitch.
So that’s why he’d likely start both Diogo Dalot and Malacia, given how good they are going forward.
Admittedly, both players have work to do defensively to become the perfect all-round full-backs. But they both have the potential to get better, especially with some good coaching at Carrington.
Raphael Varane, as a serial winner and one of the world’s best defenders, would get into the team.
And Martinez would likely be deployed alongside the France international, with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof then filling in when required.