Man United will be 'Premier League title contenders' next season, claims Stuart Pearce

Manchester United will be 'Premier League title contenders' next season, claims Stuart Pearce who has praised the job Erik ten Hag has done so far at the club.

After a shaky start to their league campaign, which saw them lose to Brighton and Brentford, Man United have impressed in the league, registering 14 wins - only Manchester City and Arsenal have won more matches.

The Red Devils, who currently occupy third place in the table, have 46 points on the board, five points behind Man City and Arsenal.

Ten Hag's side remain in touching distance of the top two, but Pearce thinks this season 'may to be soon for them' to win the league.

Manchester United celebrate scoring a goal against Leeds United. Image Alamy

However, he's backed Man United to be genuine contenders for the league next season.

On talkSPORT, he said: "I think [Ten Hag] has pushed them to somewhere near title contenders at this stage, I would say.

"I think this season may be too soon for them [to win the title], but I would say for a growing process over the next few months, there’s no reason why they can’t come back to the table next year as Premier League contenders. I don’t think they’ve been there for a number of years."

Pearce continued to speak highly of Ten Hag as he praised how the Dutchman dealt with the Cristiano Ronaldo situation. Of course, he had his contract terminated after giving a controversial interview, where he slammed the club.

"The Ronaldo situation was important to his evolution at the club," he added.

"Once he got the fans onboard having done what he did with Ronaldo, I think that was it. It was a cakewalk for him and the team are playing from strength to strength."

Man United have shown signs of being a Premier League title contender this campaign, having beaten Man City and Arsenal.

Ten Hag's team resume their league campaign on Sunday when they host Leicester City.

And he could lead them to their first piece of silverware since 2017 as they take on Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final at the end of the month.

Could Man United win the league next season? Let us know what you think.