Real reason why Eric Ten Hag stopped Ivan Toney deal

Reports indicate that Manchester United contemplated signing Ivan Toney during the summer transfer window but ultimately decided against it due to Erik ten Hag’s reservations. Ten Hag sought to enhance his attacking options at the end of the previous season, leading to the signing of Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna in July. Although there were connections to Toney both prior to and following Zirkzee’s acquisition, the club eventually ceased discussions.

Toney attracted interest from Chelsea and Arsenal but ultimately signed with Al Ahli in the Saudi Pro League after Brentford accepted a £40 million offer. The 28-year-old played a significant role in England’s Euro 2024 campaign, scoring twice in Al Ahli’s recent 4-2 victory over Damac.

Had Ten Hag not voiced concerns about Toney’s pressing abilities, he might have continued in the Premier League with Manchester United. ESPN noted that while Ten Hag acknowledged Toney’s goal-scoring skills, he was worried about the forward’s energy in pressing situations. Brentford’s manager, Thomas Frank, hoped to retain Toney but accepted the player’s exit as his contract neared expiration. Following Toney’s transfer to Saudi Arabia, where he will earn about £400,000 per week, Frank lauded his contributions, calling him a Brentford legend. Toney, for his part, expressed gratitude for his time at Brentford, highlighting the unique bond he developed with the club and its supporters.

Meanwhile, Manchester United has struggled to score this season, netting only five goals in five matches. Zirkzee has contributed one goal, scored on the opening day, while Rasmus Hojlund is still out due to injury.

United’s decision to forgo Toney may be impacting their early-season offensive challenges. Ten Hag’s focus on pressing led the club to prioritize Zirkzee instead, while Toney has already made a significant impact at Al Ahli. With just five goals in five matches, United might need to rethink their strategy, particularly with Hojlund still unavailable.