Manchester United’s season has started on a troubling note, amplifying concerns about the decision by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos to retain Erik ten Hag as manager. The summer was marked by speculation and internal debate over whether to dismiss Ten Hag following a disappointing season. Ultimately, Ineos chose to keep faith in the Dutchman, a decision that has now been brought into sharp focus following a string of lackluster performances.
The decision to persist with Ten Hag was seen by many as a gamble, given the clear issues that plagued United last season, issues that seem to have carried over into the current campaign. Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s visible frustration during a recent defeat only highlights the growing pressure on both the manager and the new ownership. The scrutiny is intense, and every setback serves as a reminder of the precariousness of Ten Hag’s position.
Recurring Problems: Ten Hag’s Defensive Response to Criticism
In the aftermath of United’s 3-0 loss to Liverpool, Ten Hag’s response to media criticism was telling. When asked about the persistence of issues such as defensive errors and lack of coherence, Ten Hag deflected, defending his record and questioning the validity of the critique. “You are sure?” he asked, before pointing to the trophies won under his tenure, as evidence that the problems are not as dire as they seem.
However, this defensive posture does little to inspire confidence, especially when the problems highlighted are evident on the pitch. The inability or unwillingness to acknowledge and address these issues publicly raises concerns about Ten Hag’s vision and approach. His reference to “building a team” rings hollow when the same flaws are repeatedly exposed, raising questions about whether he truly has the solutions to United’s ongoing struggles.
Tactical Missteps: A Manager Outmaneuvered
One of the most glaring issues in United’s recent performances has been the ease with which opponents have been able to deconstruct Ten Hag’s tactics. In a recent match, Liverpool manager Arne Slot succinctly identified United’s vulnerabilities, particularly noting how their high full-backs and Casemiro’s positioning left them exposed. Slot’s ability to so quickly and effectively counter United’s approach, despite being new to the Premier League, contrasts starkly with Ten Hag’s continued struggles to impose a coherent strategy.
This tactical naivety is further underscored when compared to other managers like Brighton’s Fabian Hurzeler, who has implemented a more nuanced and effective style in a much shorter time. Ten Hag, despite being in charge for over two years and having significant control over transfers, has yet to instill the same level of organization and fluidity. The ongoing tactical missteps raise serious concerns about his ability to compete at the highest level.
The Ineos Dilemma: Stick or Twist?
The overarching question now facing Ineos and Sir Jim Ratcliffe is whether to stick with Ten Hag or make a change before the season slips away. Sacking a manager so soon after reaffirming their support would undoubtedly reflect poorly on the new ownership. Yet, the risk of continuing down the current path may outweigh the potential fallout from a managerial change.
There are arguments for patience, with some within the club suggesting that Ten Hag needs more time to adapt to the new structure and implement his ideas fully. However, the persistence of old flaws and the lack of visible progress are hard to ignore. The longer these issues remain unresolved, the more it appears that the decision to retain Ten Hag could be a costly mistake. Ultimately, Ineos must weigh the potential benefits of stability against the growing evidence that change may be necessary to rescue Manchester United’s faltering season.
