What has gone wrong at Man Utd?
Erik ten Hag was as animated as he has ever been since arriving at Manchester United as he set the record straight for his critics ahead of Saturday’s Premier League trip to Fulham. The Red Devils manager addressed concerns about his playing style – or lack thereof – and shut down a question to emphasise his focus on short-term success.
Ten Hag’s reign has fallen into disarray this season, overseeing eight defeats in 15 games, including five in 10 at Old Trafford.
The worst came in the space of four days over the last week, first against Manchester City in the Premier League before Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup fourth round. Both 3-0.
Ten Hag has fielded mass criticism over the style of play he has attempted to instil in his United side. Concerns intensified after comments to Dutch media on Sunday suggesting he couldn’t replicate his Ajax style in Manchester.
And the way Eddie Howe’s third-string Newcastle side waltzed into the Carabao Cup quarter-finals in midweek worsened scrutiny in that department.
But Ten Hag has defended his vision at Old Trafford, claiming it was clear for all to see throughout his successful maiden season and has been hampered by relentless defensive injuries.
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“I came here with my philosophy, based on possession, but also to combine it with the DNA of Man United, but also with the players and their character,” Ten Hag explained.
“We combined it last year, and we played very good football last season. I want to play from the back, and we try that in every game, but like against Man City if they are good at pressing, it’s a good option to go direct.
“We want to press, then go direct because we have the players who are very good at it. I don’t want to say that [I haven’t shown a playstyle]. That’s too strong.
“The intention is clear, but the execution isn’t there. In the moment we’re in, with so many changes, we can’t line up the same game each time, and we have to swap.
“We miss players in the back four, and every time, we have to adjust, which doesn’t help the routines.”
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Ten Hag needs an upturn of results to soothe the noise and secure his job, starting at Craven Cottage at lunchtime on Saturday.
And he stressed that his focus isn’t on his long-term project by shutting down a question regarding the January transfer window and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s investment into the club.
Passionately defending his players, he said: “I have a good squad. I’m convinced about the players in the dressing room. We saw these players last year. They can do a lot better, but it’s up to me to let them play better.
“I have to take the responsibility to make them play better, and I will put every effort in to get this done. I’m not thinking about transfer windows because I have a good squad.”
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