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Erik ten Hag is aware that Manchester United still has room for growth in their development. He refuted Jamie Carragher’s assertion that the team has regressed this season, despite his background as a former Liverpool defender.
On Sunday afternoon, the focus will be on Old Trafford as the Red Devils aim for a significant win against Manchester City, who have won the treble.
The United team approaches the game following their hard-fought third consecutive win in all competitions. In the Champions League, Andre Onana’s last-minute penalty save secured a 1-0 victory against Copenhagen.
Ten Hag’s struggling team narrowly avoided defeat once again, but they will need to significantly improve if they hope to have a shot at winning the 191st Manchester derby.
“We are heading in the correct direction and still have a ways to go,” stated the manager of United.
I acknowledge both the good and bad aspects. Our performance is not always consistent at the level we strive for and demonstrate in games.
For example, consider Arsenal’s away match or the first half of the Bayern Munich away game. However, it is important to consistently perform in this manner.
“We excel in pressing, having the highest number of ball regains and middle regains in the entire Premier League.”
“Our defensive and pressing strategies can be seen here. As I mentioned at the beginning of the season, this is the style of play we aim to embody.”
However, we are not utilizing the opportunities during attacking transitions, which we should be doing. Our team has players with the necessary abilities to take advantage of these moments.
“We took note of this and recognize the need for growth and progress. As a result, games will become more manageable.”
This season, United has faced several challenges, including injuries, off-field problems, difficult matches, and underperforming players.
The brightness of a hopeful debut season under Ten Hag has definitely faded, as the team’s performance declined significantly after their victory in the Carabao Cup final against Newcastle in February.
Carragher, a beloved figure at Liverpool, recently stated that Manchester United appears to be a team at the end of its cycle rather than one in the process of rebuilding under a relatively new manager.
The ex-defense player also expressed in his article for The Telegraph that “the game has become dull and signs of decline are evident” – remarks that were brought up to Ten Hag before the derby.
“I mentioned that we need to improve in possession,” the Dutch coach stated. “However, there are certain factors that I won’t delve into, but I believe everyone can see why.”
However, there are also truths that contradict this statement. I hold a different opinion that we are significantly improved.
“We excel in reclaiming high and middle balls, ranking at the top of the Premier League in both categories.”
“Our team’s pressing is consistently strong, so what he is saying is not accurate.”
The current state of United is not their strongest, as their performances have been shaky while dealing with ongoing uncertainty about ownership.
Sheikh Jassim has recently stepped down from the ongoing potential takeover negotiations because of the Glazer family’s requirements. It appears that Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos is now poised to acquire a stake and assume control of the sports team.
When asked about whether United’s players are considering the potential effects of changes above them, Ten Hag replied, “I don’t believe so.”
Naturally, they are dedicated to the club, but their main focus is on the team.
“They aspire to achieve success and understand the importance of teamwork and cooperation from your fellow team members.”
Playing with the top players on our team helps us improve our teamwork and leads to better performance, benefiting everyone involved.
I believe the players are focusing on their own thoughts rather than considering strategic reviews or structures.
Source: independent.co.uk
