4 young players Erik ten Hag should integrate for the next stage of his Manchester United project

Erik ten Hag could look to utilise the talented youth at his disposal as Manchester United look to continue to improve under the Dutchman’s leadership.

First of all, this is certainly not to say that United should not bolster their side in the transfer market. In fact, bringing through these young players as squad players will help the club focus their funding on strengthening the first XI.

The world’s worst-kept secret is the fact that The Reds are not rich in depth. With the funds reportedly available for the summer window, United would never be able to strengthen their depth as well as their strongest line-up.

Certain players do not suit the way of play that Ten Hag wants his team to eventually play. Selling players could also prove useful to generate extra funding for the summer.

With several talented youth players on the books, Ten Hag could look to play these four players more and more, as they suit the style that he’s aiming to adjust to.

Zidane Iqbal

Zidane Iqbal is yet to make an appearance in the first-team this season despite impressing during the pre-season tour and friendlies during the World Cup.

However, his profile is one that United are in desperate need of – a number eight that is press resistant and an impressive progressive passer and carrier. Frenkie de Jong was supposed to be that player for Ten Hag, but he slipped through the grasp.

Even if The Reds can access that player in the summer, having an appropriate backup is a huge asset for Ten Hag, as he would not have to change the game plan so drastically when the first choice is out of action or being rotated.

In what is one of the most important positions on the pitch, Iqbal could be a valuable backup player whilst United focus on finding the main guy.

Kobbie Mainoo

Similarly, Kobbie Mainoo could seriously break into the fold next season. It’s already clear that Ten Hag rates the 17-year-old and his game-time will only increase going forward.

The midfielder is trusted to be a regular in the first-team squad now and can play a variety of roles, but would suit the progressive eight just like Iqbal.

His talent level at just 17 is already very impressive and it seems likely that he will continue to learn under Ten Hag rather than being sent on loan.

Amad Diallo

Amad Diallo is one of the most talented players that United have on their books. Ten Hag recognised his talents but also concluded that he needed regular first-team minutes after pre-season.

At Sunderland, Amad has developed his game and holds the exact principles that Ten Hag wants from his right-winger. Like Antony, the Ivorian holds the width and defends well, he also links the play excellently and rarely loses the ball when receiving it on the flank.

Many believe that United are in need of yet another right-winger, but Amad could be the long-term solution, or at the very least be a valuable squad member. Whilst some argue that another season on loan could be better for the winger, being used as a rotational option on the right side would suit him at Old Trafford next season.

Facundo Pellistri

Facundo Pellistri has made several appearances for United this year and has impressed in each cameo. His most recent game against Real Betis saw the winger create a goal after a driving past a player to cut the ball back into the danger area.

Pellistri is a different option for Ten Hag on the right. He’s more direct and will likely take the ball on the outside rather than cutting in, however, the attributes that Ten Hag needs from the right in link-up, defensive work rate and press resistance are all things that Pellistri also offers.

The tricky winger could be a perfect alternative option on the right side and could be even more useful if United buy a world-class striker in the summer.