Erik ten Hag has made his Manchester United plan for Donny van de Beek clear

It was never much of a secret, but Manchester United have finally confirmed Erik ten Hag will become their next permanent manager after he emerged as their preferred choice following a comprehensive search.

Throughout the process, United sources reiterated they were keeping their options open in regards to the next appointment, though in reality it was always a matter of Ten Hag or Mauricio Pochettino, the only two viable candidates for the role. No matter who United chose, there was always going to be an element of risk. Now, the key is for United to get behind their new man and ensure he has the best possible chance of success when he officially takes the reins at the end of the season.

But while the 52-year-old's role won't begin until the summer, he still has some initial work to do as the club looks to get everything in place so he can hit the ground running as soon as he arrives.

READ MORE: Why Manchester United chose Erik ten Hag as their next manager

Getting Ten Hag's appointment wrapped up early was crucial for United to ensure they had a clear sales pitch ahead of the summer transfer window. With the Dutchman now confirmed in the role, it is much easier to sell a vision to any prospective arrivals and much easier to convince others about why they would be right to remain at the club.

One such beneficiary of his arrival is that of compatriot Donny van de Beek, who could have a rejuvenated role under the manager who elevated him to stardom with his prominent role in Ajax's journey to the Champions League semi-finals back in 2019.

Van de Beek's struggles at Old Trafford have been well-documented since he left Amsterdam for Manchester nearly two years ago. And, although he has continued to struggle since joining