Man Utd squad offer ‘no excuses’ in open letter to supporters

Manchester United’s players have admitted they ‘fell short’ of expectations in 2023/24, offering ‘no excuses’ for their poor Premier League return. 

The Red Devils ended the campaign eighth in the table, which represents their lowest placing in the Premier League era. What’s more, United also crashed out of Europe entirely before Christmas after finishing below Bayern Munich, FC Copenhagen and Galatasaray at the bottom of their Champions League group.

United’s season was salvaged at the death as they shocked rivals Manchester City 2-1 in Saturday’s FA Cup final.

It remains to be seen whether or not the result will save Erik ten Hag’s job, despite the Dutchman returning two major trophies in two years at the helm. However, it did ensure United will play in the Europa League next season after missing out on European qualification entirely through their league position.

Man Utd players admit to falling short

Saturday’s win at Wembley sparked wild celebrations among Man Utd players and supporters alike. Few gave them a prayer against their illustrious city rivals but teenagers Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo delivered the goods right when they were needed most.

But as the dust settles on a memorable final, there’s no escaping from the fact that United came nowhere near to reaching the standards expected of them throughout 2023/24.

The Red Devils players have promised improvement next season in an open letter to their supporters published on Sunday evening:

“To every Manchester United fan,

“We all know that this club is special.

“Yesterday’s game was yet another reminder of that. As we fought to win the FA Cup, the incredible atmosphere you generated inside Wembley helped push us over the line.

“Celebrating all together was beautiful. Fans, staff, players — all united as one. Those memories will live with us forever.

A message from the #FACup winners ???#MUFC

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 26, 2024

“It was a further reminder that with your support behind us, and the United badge on our chests, we can achieve great things.

“You can be sure that we feel immense pride in representing our football club. This shared passion will drive us forward together, back to where this club belongs.

“We know how much this club means to so many people — in Manchester and around the world. The backing you have given to us, even during times when we fell short of the standards that we set for ourselves, has been unbelievable.

“We understand the sacrifices that you have to make to show this level of support. It does not go unnoticed or unappreciated. We know this season overall has not been good enough and we make no excuses. But we ended it in the best way possible, celebrating a trophy all together.

“We want more days like yesterday. We are excited for the future here. There is so much that we have to achieve together. We will fight to bring Manchester United the success that this special club deserves.

“Thank you for your unrivalled support.

“The 2023/24 Manchester United squad.”