Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim are both interested in buying Manchester United
Former Manchester United defender Paul Parker believes his former club can continue next season but off-field problems need to be resolved as soon as possible.
The takeover saga at Old Trafford is still ongoing, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim the two main contenders to buy Man United. The latter is believed to have made a fourth offer on Tuesday, around £5bn - although the Glazer family are believed to value the club at £6bn.
On the pitch, it has been a progressive season under Erik ten Hag, with United's fourth place within reach - who need a home draw against Chelsea on Thursday to secure that. And Parker - who played for United between 1991 and 1996 - believes there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic at Old Trafford, but this upcoming transfer window is crucial. The former defender said Erik ten Hag will want to bring new faces to his squad as soon as possible this summer, which means the takeover needs to be completed quickly.
"Only when everything is sorted out and he can really start buying players who can show up on the first day of pre-season," Parker said when asked by MEN Sport if he would think United are on their way back or not. "If that happens, it means United have a chance to get back to where they are. And then there's no excuse, to be honest.
"It doesn't happen overnight, but they will be in a better position than they were last season. And they've done pretty well this season, so for sure they'll be a lot better than in 2013."
United kept busy last summer, spending big on Antony, Casemiro and Lisandro Martinez - while bringing in Tyrell Malacia and Christian Eriksen. Another strong period is needed before 2023/24, and Parker believes early action could make a big difference.
"Yes, that's right," Parker said. "Instead of players showing up - that's why many players will have more time after this season. I think Malacia will be better for that; feel the feeling of being away from home and in the city. this how. "I think Antony will get better. I hope he gets better and develops that way. I feel better in my second season, having been there for a summer as well."
Casemiro shows he's United's leader in two moments
Ten Hag now has a base lineup for the Cup finals
Man United failed again because of Rashford
Ten Hag reveals how long he watched Jones practice
blogpay
Total Comments: 0