Erik ten Hag has less than a month to decide on Manchester United position problem

The countdown is officially on.

There are now fewer than four weeks to go until Manchester United's Premier League opener against Wolves at Old Trafford on August 14. It will mark the beginning of the second chapter of the Erik ten Hag era and everyone associated with the club is hungry to build on the success that was achieved in chapter one.

United made undisputed progress last term, rediscovering an identity, securing a top-four finish and ending their six-year wait for a trophy. It means there should be nothing but optimism flowing among the squad ahead of the big kick-off.

Want to join our MUFC Pro club for a totally ad-free version of the MEN's Man United app packed with premium features? Click here.

READ MORE: United are right to back Erik ten Hag's latest transfer gamble

United will step up their preparations for the forthcoming campaign later this week by flying to the USA for the start of their pre-season tour. The Reds are scheduled to fly across the Atlantic on Wednesday evening after facing Lyon in their next friendly at Murrayfield in Edinburgh.

The beginning of the tour, particularly the opening game of it against Arsenal on Saturday night in New Jersey, will mark a significant juncture in the club's preparations. Those on international duty last month only reported back to Carrington on Saturday and are not expected to play any part in the clash with Lyon, meaning their first opportunities of the summer are set to come against the Gunners.

That could signal the beginning of an in-house battle within the squad.

Presuming United get the signings of Andre Onana and a new striker over the line before the opening game of the season, Ten Hag's first-choice starting line-up - barring any injuries - should