Ten Hag: 'The season is still successful for Man Utd'

Manager Erik ten Hag was disappointed when Man Utd lost in the FA Cup final but insisted the team had had a successful season.

"We were disappointed and devastated, we felt the pain," Ten Hag said in a press conference after the final at Wembley on June 3. "But I'm proud of the Man Utd players because they played very well. We conceded two unnecessary goals, but the team spirit was not affected. At the end of the match, we could have equalized."

Coach Erik ten Hag after the FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium on June 3, 2023. Photo: Reuters

Man Utd lost 1-2 to Man City in the FA Cup final, ending the season with only one title, the English League Cup, and a place in the 2023-2024 Champions League. When asked if the season was a success, Ten Hag said: "Definitely. We were not successful this time but we will learn many positive things for next season. I only have one goal, which is to help Man Utd improve further, and I will fight to protect my philosophy."

Both of Man Utd's goals in this match came from Ilkay Gundogan's long-range one-touch shots, which led to criticism of goalkeeper David de Gea. The Dutch coach believes Man Utd should not have conceded those goals. "This is not the time to criticise De Gea," he said. "We are on the right track, but goals like that should not be repeated if the team wants to conquer the title."

The Glazer owners of Man Utd attended the match at Wembley, but refused to speak to the media. The fate of the "Red Devils" is unclear as Glazer has not yet decided to sell the team, putting them at risk of not being able to recruit new players early for next season. Coach Ten Hag said he will talk to the board to determine the next steps. But for now, he will work with his current colleagues and players.

Man Utd's priority in the summer transfer window of 2023 is to sign a top-class striker and goalkeeper. They also want to add a central midfielder and a central defender. In addition, the team can sell players who are no longer in Ten Hag's plans, such as central defender Harry Maguire, midfielder Scott McTominay or striker Anthony Martial.

Hoang An

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