It is not only about youth, of course, as United have some experienced figures not participating in Qatar. The likes of David De Gea, Victor Lindelof, Scott McTominay and Anthony Martial will be determined to keep ticking over in this period, ready to continue putting the manager’s tactics into practice and exerting such influence within the squad.
Jadon Sancho, having not had any game-time since the draw at Chelsea last month, should welcome the chance to regain full fitness and learn Erik’s system and the same can be said of Anthony Elanga, whom the boss discussed after the win at Craven Cottage.
“I think he’s doing well,” commented Ten Hag. “He did well in the game but there are also some facts we have to work on with him, especially in his anticipation and in his proactivity. I think he makes huge progress in that but, if he wants to be a top player, then it has to come even more.”
This is often the manager’s mantra: that everybody, even the coaches and all the staff, must strive to get better each and every single day. The lengthy time together, almost like another pre-season, can help facilitate this.