Man Utd’s recent 1-1 draw against Twente at Old Trafford has left the fans disappointed and frustrated, with many of them questioning the abilities of the team’s manager, Erik ten Hag. This result has added pressure on ten Hag, who is in his third season at the club. Manchester United has won only one game out of their last nine fixtures in European competition, which is a cause of concern for the fans and the club’s management.
The Impact of Ten Hag’s Management
When Erik ten Hag took over as the manager of Manchester United in 2022, there were high expectations from the fans and the club’s management. However, the team’s performance in the last two seasons has been inconsistent, and they have failed to make a significant impact in the European competitions. Despite winning two trophies in his first two seasons, ten Hag’s managerial skills have been questioned by many fans and experts.
Assessing Ten Hag’s Style of Play
Ten Hag’s style of play has been a topic of discussion among the fans and experts. His possession-based game with full-backs heavily involved in the build-up has not yielded the desired results. While the team has looked better on the ball, they have struggled to score goals and have been inconsistent in their performances. “Ten Hag’s desired style of play has come through this season. His demands of control are finally being answered. United have looked improved on the ball and off it – although the bar wasn’t high – and plenty of chances have been created.” (Alex Turk, Stretford Paddock)
According to some fans, ten Hag’s style of play is too predictable, and the team lacks a clear plan B. The team’s inability to score goals has been a major concern, and many fans feel that ten Hag needs to make significant changes to his tactics to address this issue. The lack of a clear goal-scoring strategy has been a major weakness of the team, and ten Hag needs to find a solution to this problem if he wants to turn the team’s fortunes around.
Comparison with Other Managers
Some fans have compared ten Hag’s managerial style with that of other managers, such as Sir Alex Ferguson. While Ferguson took 25 years to build a successful team, some fans feel that ten Hag has had enough time to make a significant impact. “It took Ferguson 25 years to mould a team. Ten Hag should be cut some slack as well. He is not a magician.” (Careca)
However, other fans feel that ten Hag has had enough time to prove himself and that it is time for him to be held accountable for the team’s performances. The team’s results have not been satisfactory, and many fans feel that ten Hag needs to take responsibility for the team’s poor performance.
Evaluating Ten Hag’s Future at Manchester United
Ten Hag’s future at Manchester United is uncertain, and many fans are divided on whether he should be given more time or be sacked. While some fans feel that ten Hag has the potential to turn the team’s fortunes around, others feel that he has had enough time and that it is time for him to go. “I’ve been told not to lift my kids up – Wood on injury. Ten Hag needs time and money.” (Henry)
According to some fans, ten Hag needs more time to implement his plans and to build a successful team. The team’s ownership has offered reasons to be optimistic about the club’s future, and some fans feel that ten Hag is the right man to take the team forward.
Risks of Sacking Ten Hag
However, sacking ten Hag could also have its risks. The team’s current assistant manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy, is seen as a potential successor to ten Hag. While van Nistelrooy is a popular choice among the fans, some experts feel that he may not have the experience to manage a team like Manchester United. “Ruud van Nistelrooy was a shrewd addition to the coaching staff over the summer, presumably coming in with the idea of one day taking the job for his own.” (Dale O’Donnell, Stretty News)
Additionally, sacking ten Hag could lead to instability in the team, which could further hinder the team’s chances of success. The team needs stability and consistency, and many fans feel that sacking ten Hag could lead to more problems than it solves.
Conclusion
Man Utd’s recent performance has raised questions about ten Hag’s managerial abilities. While some fans feel that he needs to be given more time, others feel that he has had enough time and that it is time for him to go. The team’s ownership has offered reasons to be optimistic about the club’s future, and ten Hag’s future at the club is uncertain. Only time will tell if ten Hag will be able to turn the team’s fortunes around and lead Manchester United to success.