Manchester United reportedly opted not to pursue Ivan Toney during the summer transfer window as he didn’t align with the striker profile that manager Erik ten Hag was seeking. Despite links to Toney, who scored 72 goals and provided 23 assists in 141 appearances for Brentford, Ten Hag reportedly sought a forward capable of high-energy pressing, which Toney was not seen as fitting.
Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur also showed interest in the England international. Still, Toney ultimately signed up for the Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli, where he scored three goals and registered one assist in four matches.
Heading into the summer transfer window, Manchester United prioritized signing a new forward, with several high-profile names, including Brentford’s Ivan Toney, being linked to the club. Despite initial interest, United ultimately chose to sign Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna for 36 million pounds (48 million dollars), leaving Toney to explore other opportunities.
Why Didn’t Manchester United Choose Ivan Toney
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According to ESPN, Manchester United considered Toney but did not view him as the ideal fit for Ten Hag’s tactical system. Instead, the club signed Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna, and the Dutchman made a positive start by scoring on his Premier League debut against Fulham. Although he hasn’t added another goal yet, his link-up play has impressed.
Rasmus Højlund has also returned to action following a hamstring injury, making his season debut off the bench against Crystal Palace. While Ten Hag has yet to settle on his best-attacking lineup, Amad Diallo has become the favored choice on the right wing, delivering a series of strong performances.
As a result, Toney eventually secured a move to Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli for a 40 million pounds (53 million dollars) fee. He is reportedly earning a staggering 403,000 pounds per week, including bonuses, and has made an immediate impact, scoring three goals in his first four appearances.
Manchester United Struggling With Their Form
Manchester United, who have only scored five league goals this season, take some comfort from their recent clean sheets and their seven-goal performance against Barnsley in the EFL Cup. However, the absence of a consistent 20-goal striker could impact their chances of securing a top-four finish in the Premier League.
The Red Devils face Tottenham Hotspur in their next league match on Sunday, followed by a Europa League clash against Porto on October 3. Considering Manchester United’s form, these fixtures need to be won. Only this will help them get back to winning ways and also restore their long-lost form.
Already dropping points in the league can prove to be crucial for Manchester United as every point matters in a league like the Premier League. The remainder of the season promises to be interesting to watch as Manchester United aims to make a comeback and looks forward to restoring their pride in the league.
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