Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag has attributed Financial Fair Play regulations to the club’s inability to mount a serious challenge for trophies this season.

Ten Hag lamented the constraints posed by FFP, which prevented him from building on last season’s third-placed finish and capitalizing on the team’s positive momentum.

The Dutchman expressed his desire to secure Harry Kane from Tottenham for £100 million. 

However, due to budget restrictions, United opted to invest £72 million in Rasmus Hojlund and splurge £102 million on Mason Mount and goalkeeper Andre Onana instead.

Reflecting on the club’s transfer decisions, Ten Hag emphasized the impact of FFP on their strategy, acknowledging that their focus on acquiring young talent for the future has prolonged their journey towards competing for top positions in the Premier League and Champions League.

“When we were in the summer, I think we had very good momentum. We had finished third, we won one final, and were in another final.

“Then we chose to bring in young players for the future – and that had to do with FFP.

“That was the choice we made – but you then know it will take longer before you can come into the competition for the top positions in the Premier League or Champions League,” Ten Hag told reporters.