The air around Old Trafford hasn’t been nice in recent weeks. With tension growing around the spectators and discontent growing louder, Erik ten Hag could be looking to find a new job soon. Getting knocked out from the UEFA Champions League in the group stage itself, things are not looking good for him anymore.
Ten Hag’s arrival last summer was greeted with massive optimism. His style at Ajax, coupled with his attacking brand of football, offered a glimmer of hope for a fanbase. Early signs were encouraging, with Manchester United showcasing glimpses of their attacking potential and achieving some notable victories.
Erik ten Hag helped Manchester United have an impressive season last season by winning the Carabao Cup, reaching the final of the FA Cup, and finishing 3rd in the Premier League. Things were looking like Manchester United had finally found the man to help them reach their former glories.
🚨 A heavy loss on Sunday against Liverpool could be the final straw for under-fire Erik ten Hag. #MUFC [@ncustisTheSun] pic.twitter.com/OGRdyi0tzC
— mufcmpb (@mufcMPB) December 13, 2023
Manchester United has suffered 12 defeats this season, indicating the need for a change in fortunes. Many believe with such a change of fortunes, Erik ten Hag has lost his control over the dressing room. And the upcoming match against their fierce rivals, Liverpool could prove to be the final straw for him at the Old Trafford.
Manchester United under Ten Hag has been a team of two halves. Capable of breathtaking attacking displays one week, they crumble against any opposition the next. The fluidity and tactical coherence that defined his Ajax teams seem cagey at best.
Manchester United’s poor form
After a great last season, many expected Manchester United to contend for the title after recruiting new players. But in reality, things are looking the opposite as Manchester United currently languishes in 6th, 10 points behind the league leaders, Liverpool.
Starting the season with 4 losses of the first 6 matches across all competitions, things didn’t go as planned for ten Hag. But after that horror start to the season, Manchester United were thought to have got their form back for a few matches (as of October 25th) as they won 5 of their next 7 matches.
They lost their next match to city rivals Manchester City by the scoreline of 3 goals to nil, and after that match a couple of days later they lost to Newcastle United by the same scoreline as well.
Holding such poor form, in no time Manchester United could prove to be in a worse situation as the festive fixture list is coming strong. Across this fixture list, they have to face the likes of Liverpool, Aston Villa, and West Ham United in the next 15 days.
Man Utd’s next six fixtures 📊🔴
“Where will Manchester United be in the start of 2024?” 🤔 pic.twitter.com/ShbJ0Cd0gL
— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) December 12, 2023
Coming in with such poor form, things haven’t been good for ten Hag in terms of injuries as well. Man United have had injuries to 20 players this season, causing inconsistent lineups for Erik ten Hag.
Manchester United’s recent struggles are a symptom of deeper issues within the club. However, acknowledging these challenges and implementing meaningful solutions can pave the way for a brighter future. The Red Devils can reclaim their place among the elite with the right approach and a united effort.