In his inaugural season at Manchester United, Erik ten Hag experienced success, clinching a third-placed finish and securing the Carabao Cup, alongside reaching the FA Cup final. However, this season has seen a marked downturn under the former Ajax manager, with United encountering disappointment and underperformance.
Despite a promising start, the Red Devils currently languish in sixth place, amassing 49 points from 31 Premier League matches. Their trajectory suggests they are poised to miss out on Champions League qualification, compounded by a record number of league defeats.
Such dismal statistics have intensified pressure on Ten Hag, leading to speculations about his future at Old Trafford. Here, Torizone examines seven compelling reasons why Manchester United should consider parting ways with ten Hag:
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1. Lack of Defined Playing Style: Manchester United’s recent draw against Liverpool underscored the ambiguity surrounding Ten Hag’s playing style. Despite sporadic flashes of brilliance, the team exhibits an identity crisis, relying more on individual moments rather than cohesive team play—a lingering issue from the previous managerial era.
2. Absence of Consistency: United’s inability to sustain consistent performances throughout matches has been glaring. While occasional victories showcase glimpses of excellence, they often come with caveats, with the team relying heavily on late-game heroics rather than dominating performances.
3. Defensive Struggles: United’s defensive vulnerabilities have been a persistent concern, with the team conceding an alarming number of goals—matching their worst defensive record in the Premier League era. The inability to address these issues reflects systemic shortcomings within the team.
4. Handling of Injuries: The frequency and severity of injuries under Ten Hag’s reign are unsettling, disrupting team cohesion and performance. Players’ continuous spells on the sidelines raise questions about the adequacy of the team’s medical and fitness management.
5. Questionable Recruitment: Despite substantial investment, United’s recruitment under Ten Hag has yielded underwhelming results, with many signings failing to make a significant impact. The reliance on loanees and the inability to secure proven goal-scorers highlight deficiencies in the club’s recruitment strategy.
6. Failure to Qualify for Champions League: United’s regression, culminating in their failure to secure a top-four finish, is a significant setback given the club’s financial resources and squad quality. This failure reflects poorly on Ten Hag’s ability to guide the team to success.
7. The Need for Change: United’s underperformance necessitates a reassessment of the managerial situation. Historical precedents, such as Bayern Munich’s successful managerial transitions, suggest that a change in leadership may be necessary for United to regain their competitive edge.
In light of these factors, Manchester United must carefully consider the path forward to revitalize the club’s fortunes and restore its status as a dominant force in English and European football.