Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has ruled out signing a new striker in January, blaming the financial fair play (FFP) regulations for limiting his options.
The Red Devils are facing a striker shortage after Anthony Martial underwent groin surgery that will sideline him until April.
But Ten Hag said he has no room to manoeuvre in the transfer market, as United have to comply with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules.
“I have no space to sign a striker. FFP does not allow it,” Ten Hag said on Friday. “We have to be creative with what we have. Rashford can play up front, and we have other alternatives.”
Ten Hag was speaking for the first time since United appointed Omar Berrada as their new chief executive, poaching him from rivals Manchester City.
Berrada’s arrival is part of a major overhaul at Old Trafford, following British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe’s $1.3 billion investment for a 25 percent stake in the club.
United have been without a permanent chief executive since Richard Arnold left last year.
“Berrada’s move gives us a boost. He brings a lot of experience and vision,” Ten Hag said. “We are going through a period of change, but it is for the better. We have high ambitions, and we need to raise our standards.”
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Ten Hag added: “We know we have to change, and we started that process last season with the dressing room. But we also need to improve in other areas, and I am glad I have the support.”
United’s only realistic chance of winning a trophy this season is the FA Cup, where they face fourth-tier Newport on Sunday.
The match will also see the debut of goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, who joined United in the summer from Fenerbahce.
“Altay will start in goal. He is ready for this moment,” Ten Hag said. “He has played in a big club in Turkey, so he can handle the pressure. We were very impressed by him when we signed him. He is very motivated and eager to play.”
