Anthony Elanga has confessed that the Manchester United squad severely lacked fitness under the managerial reign of Ralf Rangnick.
Those who questioned the ability of Erik ten Hag have quickly realised their mistake with the evident progress he’s making with the squad. According to The Sun, the Dutchman has implemented a strict structure at Old Trafford and intends to make sure every player is giving their very best each and every session.
And if pre-season results are anything to go by, it seems to be paying off. A spectacular 4-0 win over Liverpool, followed by a 4-1 triumph over Melbourne Victory, showcased the improvements the players are making under the managerial tenure of the three-time Eredivisie champion.
The 52-year-old has targeted several key areas to enhance, but one, in particular, stands out from the pack.
Anthony Elanga admits fitness issue at Manchester United
Following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s departure last November, the Manchester club drafted in German mastermind Ralf Rangnick. But despite the veteran’s experience, he couldn’t turn the club’s fortunes around.
In a recent interview with the Daily Mirror, Elanga confessed that the squad lacked the fitness necessary to compete for silverware. Furthermore, he elaborated on the mindset that the new coach has installed in the team.
He said: “‘We know we weren’t as fit last season. I think we’re even fitter this season, running for the team, running off the ball and running with the ball. That element of running and pressing is really important. That’s one of the things the manager has brought into the team, and we are really buying into it.
“I feel like the whole team can press. It’s all in the mind – if you want to do it, you can do it. It’s a new style that we’ve got. We’re different now.”
After finishing sixth in the league last season, United clearly had problems. But hopefully, for fans, under the leadership of their new ‘no-nonsense’ boss, they’ll have a far greater campaign when the season commences in August.
Featured Image Credit: Getty
