Erik ten Hag is once again in the spotlight following Manchester United’s dispiriting 3-0 home defeat to Liverpool on Sunday. This result marks United’s second loss in just three games this season, plunging them to a disappointing 14th position in the Premier League table. Despite the unsettling start to the campaign, Manchester United’s chief executive officer, Omar Berrada, has declared unwavering support for their embattled manager.
The kind of backing that ten Hag is receiving from the top echelons of the club’s hierarchy indicates a profound belief in his long-term vision and capabilities, despite recent setbacks. Berrada emphasized that a couple of poor results would not deter the club’s faith in the Dutchman. “Do we still believe in Erik? Absolutely,” Berrada asserted. “We think Erik is the right coach for us, and we’re fully backing him.”
Erik ten Hag took the reins of Manchester United with high expectations, following his successful tenure at Ajax where he honed a reputation for developing young talent and implementing an attractive style of play. His appointment was meant to herald a new dawn at Old Trafford, one that aligned with the legacy of exciting, attacking football synonymous with the club.
The current predicament, however, paints a starkly contrasting picture. The loss against Liverpool was particularly galling for the fans, not just because of the scoreline but also due to the manner in which the team capitulated. Defensive frailties, a lack of cohesion in midfield, and a blunt attack have all contributed to United’s woeful start. These concerns have not gone unnoticed, but Berrada’s vote of confidence suggests the club believes in ten Hag’s ability to right the ship.
United’s performance has drawn criticism from several quarters, and calls for immediate changes have grown louder. Yet, the club’s management stands firm, urging patience and confidence in ten Hag’s methods. The idea is that stability will eventually yield the desired results. Stability, in turn, requires trust in the manager’s vision and the establishment of a consistent playing style, which has been absent since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013.
New managers often face the challenge of molding a team to their specific philosophies, and this can be especially tough in a club with the stature and pressure associated with Manchester United. Ten Hag’s approach has thus far been one of methodical change, focusing on long-term gains rather than short-term fixes.
. This strategy, while praiseworthy, inherently carries risks, particularly in the volatile world of top-tier football.
Examining recent performances, it’s clear that United are struggling to find their rhythm. The defense has been porous, with communication breakdowns and individual errors costing the team dearly. The midfield, a critical area for launching attacks and providing defensive cover, has been overrun by opponents, leading to a disjointed system that fails to link defense and attack effectively. Up front, the attacking line has lacked the clinical edge required to capitalize on scoring opportunities, with star players struggling to hit top form.
Looking ahead, ten Hag’s immediate task is to address these issues and arrest the slide. The international break could serve as a pivotal period, allowing time for reflection, tactical adjustments, and intensive training. There is also the matter of boosting the squad’s morale and confidence, which has undoubtedly taken a hit.
The upcoming fixtures after the break will be crucial for ten Hag and his team. They provide the opportunity to start afresh, turn performances around, and climb up the league table. Fans, while understandably frustrated, will hope to see signs of the attacking flair and defensive solidity that ten Hag’s teams have been known for in the past.
In recent history, United’s managerial appointments have seen mixed fortunes, with some arguing that consistent chopping and changing have contributed to the lack of stability. Berrada’s public backing of ten Hag might be seen as a corrective to this trend, giving the manager the confidence to implement his philosophy without the fear of immediate dismissal should results not turn around swiftly.
Ten Hag’s response to this show of loyalty will be keenly watched. It is, perhaps, a nod towards a more holistic and long-term approach to building a football team, one that goes beyond immediate results. Whether this approach pays off is the million-dollar question for Manchester United and its devoted fanbase. For now, the message from the club’s upper management is one of solidarity and belief in the manager’s vision. Only time will tell if this will be rewarded with the success United desperately craves.
