Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has urged his players to focus on ensuring they qualify for the Champions League next season.
At his pre-match presser (h/t Manchester Evening News) for tomorrow’s home game against Chelsea, Ten Hag said United’s project still had a long way to go.
The Red Devils need just one point from their final two matches to finish in the top four, but the Dutchman is eager to ensure his squad takes nothing for granted.
“First, we have to win the game tomorrow and get the job done,” Ten Hag said. “Then it’s about judgement from others if it’s a good, bad or normal performance.
“We are in a project – we want to go back and win trophies. We win one trophy, but we want more trophies – compete with the best.
“We are still on a journey, but we think we are in the right direction – but it can always be better. Because good is not good enough.”
In addition to discussing the Chelsea game, Ten Hag was also asked about Anthony Martial’s future at the club.
He is reportedly keen to move the Frenchman on this summer, having grown frustrated with his ongoing injury problems.
“If you are not available, you can’t score,” Ten Hag added. “When he was available we played better, the team is winning games. He’s also scoring goals, but he has to be available.”
Ten Hag hammers message home to United stars
United fans will undoubtedly be delighted to hear Ten Hag laying down the law to his players ahead of two crucial matches.
Finishing in the top four would represent progress for the club, but they remain a long way short of where Ten Hag wants them to be.
If the two Manchester clubs win their remaining two matches, United will finish a whopping 19 points behind City this season.
Ten Hag’s ‘good is not good enough’ comment demonstrates his winning mentality and should ensure the team take nothing for granted this week.
His frustration with Martial is also noteworthy – Ten Hag feels he cannot be trusted to stay fit, and his days at Old Trafford look numbered.
