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Erik ten Hag has only just started at Manchester United but the dark clouds are already gathering

The start of pre-season under Erik ten Hag only started on Monday and already the dark clouds are gathering over Manchester United.

Ten Hag's official first day was supposed to herald the start of a new, exciting era at Old Trafford after a dismal campaign where United threatened to reach their nadir with every passing week. And often succeeded.

There has been extensive talk about rebuilds, squad overhauls and even of revolution. Instead, that familiar feeling of inertia has enveloped United and its fanbase as the new manager gets to work.

The Dutchman arrived at the club's Carrington training ground in the back of an SUV at 8am on Monday morning and was later greeted by the squad - minus the players involved in the Nations League until earlier this month and a few high-profile departures - which failed to hit the minimum standard of Champions League qualification and ended with United's lowest ever Premier League points tally.