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Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag stated that he will have to be “creative” after being unable to sign another striker during the January transfer window due to budgetary restraints.
United were unable to add to their roster after spending over £200 million in the summer window, putting them near to the Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations (PSR) spending limits.
“I think it’s not a secret that I wanted a striker extra,” Ten Hag remarked after United won 4-3 against 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.”
The Premier League had a quiet window overall, with English clubs spending a total of £100 million, many of which were constrained by PSR.
Everton were punished 10 points earlier this season for exceeding the permissible losses of £105 million over a three-year term ending in the 2021/22 season.
“There are some disadvantages to FFP,” 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.”
After losing a two-goal lead against Wolves, 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo saved United at Molineux.
Ten Hag’s faith in Marcus Rashford was rewarded as the England international scored after just five minutes.
Rashford was punished for missing training last week after spending two nights out in Belfast.
Rasmus Hojlund soon extended the visitors’ advantage in what may have been Ten Hag’s greatest first 45 minutes of the season.
Scott McTominay restored United’s two-goal lead after Wolves’ Pablo Sarabia converted a penalty in the second half.
However, the visitors appeared to have thrown away the victory as Max Kilman and Pedro Neto scored in the last five minutes plus stoppage time.
However, Mainoo had the ultimate say with a spectacular solo run and finish in the 97th minute, prompting Hojlund to hail his colleague as a “generational talent.”
“A little annoyed since we turned off a little bit, but so delighted for us in the end. Kobbie Mainoo is a true talent of his generation. “He did well,” said the Dane, who now has four goals in his previous five outings.
“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.”
