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Erik ten Hag, facing criticism, urges Manchester United to unite and work together in order to reverse their struggling season.
The focus is on Old Trafford following two consecutive 3-0 losses at home within a span of four days, adding to the mounting pressure on a team experiencing their worst start to a season since 1962-63.
Sunday’s derby defeat at the hands of rivals Manchester City was compounded by Newcastle on Wednesday, who comfortably won the repeat of February’s Carabao Cup final.
This highlights the significant deviation from expectations since the teams last faced each other at Wembley. Currently, United has suffered eight defeats out of 15 matches across all competitions this season.
“I am aware that this is not satisfactory,” stated manager Ten Hag following goals from Miguel Almiron, Lewis Hall, and Joe Willock for Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United.
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“We were actively participating in the game, but within a short amount of time, we lost control and allowed the other team to take over.”
“We acknowledge that this falls below our standards and we must take accountability for it.”
The results of United’s performances have been just as concerning as the performances themselves, causing pressure to increase on Ten Hag after only 17 months in the position.
The odds from bookmakers for his departure have been reduced, but the determined Dutchman declared himself a “fighter” as United readies for three crucial matches before the international hiatus in November.
Next Wednesday, the Premier League team will have games against Fulham and Luton, with a trip to Copenhagen in between, in their efforts to continue their Champions League journey.
When questioned about how he motivates the team before the Saturday game at Craven Cottage, Ten Hag responded to MUTV by saying, “That’s just part of our responsibility. We rest and then on Thursday we have to rise up again and be ready to go.”
“Unity is our only path forward. We must stand side by side in order to overcome this challenge.”
In recent weeks, Ten Hag has emphasized the importance of unity and has found encouragement in his team’s ability to secure close wins despite their struggles in front of goal.
However, the players are still not meeting expectations, both as a team and as individuals, and there seems to be a lack of confidence at United.
Ten Hag stated that it is typical to lack confidence, but it can only be gained by taking charge and fighting, starting with winning individual battles and controlling the game on the field.
“By taking that action, you will see results and gain confidence as you continue to progress.”
Confidence is a personal trait, but it also requires teamwork to achieve.
“You must work together and remain united.”
After losing to Newcastle, United received booing from the crowd at both half-time and the end of the game. None of the players gave statements to the press.
Several fans left before the game was over, but despite feeling frustrated, some sections of the Old Trafford crowd continued to chant support for their team.
“I must commend the fans for their support,” said Ten Hag. “They were fully behind us throughout the game, even though we may not have deserved it.”
“We attempted to combat the situation, but our careless errors allowed them to capitalize on opportunities.”
Source: independent.co.uk
