Erik ten Hag still has one unanswered question after first season at Manchester United

Against the backdrop of a takeover saga that is showing no signs of stopping anytime soon, Erik ten Hag stepped forward and led by example.

Appointed Manchester United's fifth permanent manager since Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement a decade ago, the Dutchman, poached from Ajax in April last year, enjoyed both a fruitful and promising maiden campaign in the Old Trafford dugout. He ended United's six-year wait for a trophy and guided them back into the Champions League at the very first attempt.

His main objective at the very beginning of the season was to lead United to a top four finish and help them reclaim their place in Europe's premier club competition for next term. In the end, despite some nervy moments along the way, it was a mission he passed with flying colours.

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Though Chelsea's and Liverpool's standards dropped this season, making it easier for anyone with top four ambitions to give it a damn good go, United still had to rise to the challenge and get the job done. Despite the aforementioned nervy moments and the occasional hammerings, they did get the job done, achieving their main goal without too much fuss.

Had Saturday's FA Cup final at Wembley gone their way, Ten Hag's maiden season in charge would have, in summary, been described as being exceptional. Instead, it will go down as being both solid and progressive. A top four finish and a trophy is more than acceptable in a transitional season.

After a progressive maiden season under the Dutchman, which featured an impressive 42 wins from 62 matches in all competitions, United will have aspirations of kicking-on next season and taking the next step, both domestically and in Europe. The transfer window