How Ten Hag’s BARGAIN transfer is becoming Man Utd’s most important player

Erik ten Hag made a lot of transfer mistakes during his time at Manchester United but one of the Dutchman’s final signings is proving to be a bargain saviour to his former side.

Ten Hag was sacked last month after a downturn in results over the past 12 months, all while having spent more than €600 million during his two seasons at Old Trafford.

A number of former Ajax players were signed by Ten Hag to disappointing results, such as the €94 million purchase of Antony, but the arrival of Noussair Mazraoui this summer has proven to be an astute piece of business by the ex-United boss.

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Mazraoui signed from Bayern Munich for €15 million and the 27-year-old has already played 17 times in all competitions for United, starting at right-back, left-back and even in midfield.

The Moroccan has proven to be an indispensable option in United’s side, deputising for injured stars in a number of roles and producing more tackles than any other player in Europe’s top five leagues this season (39.)

At a time of upheaval, transition and injuries for United, the consistency and reliability of Mazraoui has been a revelation, all for a bargain price to perhaps counteract some of the negativity surrounding Ten Hag’s transfer business at the club.

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Mazraoui was signed as a replacement for Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who left United for West Ham for €17.6m, giving the club a small profit on the trade while also getting rid of an out-of-favour high-earner on an expiring contract.

Wan-Bissaka, too, was renowned for his tackles and defensive acumen, but the 26-year-old could only play at right-back and left much to be desired going forward.

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Mazraoui has yet to demonstrate his full ability going forward but the wing-back has been effective in attack for his former clubs and could be an intriguing option for incoming manager Ruben Amorim in his traditional 3-4-3 system.

While Mazraoui has been effective for United defensively, Amorim’s arrival could unlock a whole new element to his game that could make the ex-Ajax man an even bigger bargain if he can replicate his form in attack too.