There has been a distinct 'nearly but not quite' feel about much of the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era at Manchester United.
Not only in terms of missing out on the major honours but their perpetual state of transition, of always being a signing or two away from restoring old glories.
While Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool have all zoomed past them to win Premier League and European titles, eight years of managerial changes and poor recruitment have held United back.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer can be pleased with Manchester United's summer recruitment but knows he still has plenty of work to do before the new season kicks off in just a few weeks' time
The Norwegian has extended his United contract until 2024 ahead of the forthcoming season
David Moyes stood little chance under the white-hot scrutiny of succeeding Ferguson, even while inheriting a declining squad.