Reports indicate that Manchester United considered signing Ivan Toney during the summer transfer window but ultimately decided against it due to concerns from Erik ten Hag.
Ten Hag expressed a desire to enhance his attacking options as last season concluded, leading United to acquire Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna in July. Although the club was linked with Toney both before and after Zirkzee’s arrival, they eventually withdrew from negotiations.
Toney attracted interest from Chelsea and Arsenal as well but signed with Al Ahli in the Saudi Pro League after Brentford accepted a £40 million offer. The 28-year-old, who made significant contributions to England’s Euro 2024 final run, scored twice in Al Ahli’s recent 4-2 victory over Damac.
Had it not been for Ten Hag’s doubts about Toney’s pressing ability, he might still be playing in the Premier League with Manchester United. ESPN reported that while Ten Hag appreciated Toney’s goal-scoring skills, he was worried about the forward’s energy levels in pressing.
Brentford’s manager, Thomas Frank, had hoped to retain Toney but grew resigned to his departure as his contract approached its final year. Following Toney’s move to Saudi Arabia, where he will earn around £400,000 a week, Frank praised his contributions, calling him a Brentford legend.Toney expressed deep gratitude for his time at Brentford, highlighting the special bond he formed with the club and its fans. He thanked everyone involved and emphasized that his departure was not a farewell.
Meanwhile, Manchester United has struggled to score this season, netting only five goals in five matches. Zirkzee has one goal, scored on opening day, while Rasmus Hojlund remains sidelined with injury.
It seems like Manchester United’s decision to pass on Ivan Toney may have influenced their early-season struggles in attack. Ten Hag’s focus on pressing ability led the club to opt for Zirkzee instead, while Toney has already made an impact at Al Ahli. United’s current scoring issues, with just five goals in five matches, might prompt further adjustments to their approach, especially with Hojlund still injured.
