Steve McClaren: Man United coach makes major admission about club’s standards amid tumultous season | OneFootball

Manchester United coach Steve McClaren has admitted that the club has fallen firmly below the standards expected of them in certain instances over the past two years.

United have endured one of their worst-ever campaigns that currently has them in eighth position in the Premier League. The most recent setback came in a devastating 4-0 battering at the hands of Crystal Palace earlier this week.

A top-four finish is mathematically impossible for the Red Devils, who are also facing an uphill battle to even qualify for Europe.

Amidst all this, it has been suggested that Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS could look to make a managerial change once the campaign ends. Often, the players’ performances have left plenty to be desired and it’s understood Ratcliffe could look to part ways with Ten Hag as he aims to kickstart his era on a clean slate.

McClaren spoke to BBC Sport (via The Sun) as he attended the premiere of a new club docu-series and explained that while United are currently experiencing difficulties, he believes the new owners will make things right.

He said, “We have had many storms. I see tremendous plusses from INEOS coming in and what they are trying to do. It is identifying the standards and getting back to them.”

“At certain times since I have come back over the last two years, we have had those standards. We have also had standards that have not been Manchester United.”

“Speaking to Sir Jim Ratcliffe, speaking to Sir Dave Brailsford, they are getting the best people in. They want this to succeed.”

He added, “They have done that in their other sports and businesses. I am positive they will do it again with Manchester United.”

McClaren previously worked under Sir Alex Ferguson between 1999 and 2001, so he knows one or two things about standards and being successful.

The 63-year-old then returned with Ten Hag in 2022 when the Dutchman arrived at Old Trafford.

United return to action on Sunday when they take on Mikel Arteta’s title-challenging Arsenal.

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