Manchester United’s Season Rests on Erik ten Hag’s Shoulders
Manchester United’s players and staff have touched down in Los Angeles for their summer tour, but there’s a sense of trepidation around Old Trafford. Can Erik ten Hag silence his critics and get the team firing on all cylinders, or will he face another turbulent campaign?
Ten Hag must reassert his authority, or risk being judged on a single season
Since the end of the 2022-23 campaign, it’s been clear that ten Hag’s future as United manager was under threat. With a win rate of 48% in all competitions last season, his performances haven’t quite met expectations. His decisions on team selection, tactics, and personnel have all come under scrutiny.
Now, as United look to rebuild their squad, ten Hag has been handed a second chance to get it right. With his job reportedly safe, for now, the onus is on him to instill discipline, positivity, and confidence throughout the camp.
Who’ll be on their way out of United?
The arrivals of Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro are an attempt to refresh the squad, but if ten Hag is serious about building a consistent top-four finish, more will have to go. The futures of Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Cristiano Ronaldo remain uncertain, and United could use their sales to bolster the coffers ahead of potential bids for world-class players.
A key battle awaits for Rashford
Last season, Marcus Rashford struggled for form and consistency, with 8 goals in 43 appearances a far cry from his impressive 2022-23 numbers. Back to full fitness now, ten Hag needs the 24-year-old to lead by example and fire the United front line with the kind of power and pace fans have grown accustomed to.
Wing worries
Injury troubles have blighted the career of Anthony Martial, while Raphael Varane has opted for pastures new. Erik ten Hag still hasn’t found the right answer to United’s right-wing conundrum. While Amad Diallo could yet be the man to deliver, ten Hag might yet have to delve into the market once more to find the creative spark required to elevate his attack.
Let’s not repeat past mistakes
Squad management and squad morale must be at the top of ten Hag’s agenda. He knows injuries were a major obstacle to United’s progress last season and that more games, more traveling, and less downtime are a recipe for disaster. As United navigate another hectic Premier League schedule, he’ll have to keep his players fueled and fresh for the battles ahead.
With their summer tour getting underway, it’s clear that Erik ten Hag is at a crossroads. One season in, one chance to reassert himself. Manchester United, your summer, his mission. Follow us on all social media platforms for more updates.