Manchester United is under increasing pressure to replace manager Erik ten Hag following a series of disappointing performances and results, with scrutiny focused on three key flaws in his managerial approach.
The recent defeat to Bournemouth, where United conceded three goals without reply, highlighted the team’s struggles under Ten Hag’s leadership.
With the club experiencing their eleventh loss in just 23 matches across all competitions this season, calls for change have intensified, particularly with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s impending partial takeover.
As Ratcliffe prepares to acquire a 25 percent stake in the club, significant changes are expected, including the potential departure of CEO Richard Arnold and director of football, John Murtough.
Speculation about player exits, including Raphael Varane, Casemiro, and Jadon Sancho, has also drawn attention to the managerial situation.
While Ratcliffe’s initial stake may not immediately threaten Ten Hag’s position, former footballer Danny Murphy has been critical of the Dutchman’s management.
In a column for the Daily Mail, Murphy outlined three major issues with Ten Hag’s approach: lacklustre recruitment, motivational challenges, and tactical deficiencies.
Murphy argues that if Manchester United aims to reclaim their position at the top of English football, Ten Hag is not the right choice to lead them there.
He highlights a lack of progress and even regression under Ten Hag, particularly evident in the team’s on-field performance.
While acknowledging broader systemic issues and individual player accountability, Murphy holds Ten Hag accountable for recruitment decisions and the team’s motivational struggles.
He also questions Ten Hag’s tactical abilities, suggesting that improvements are necessary for United to succeed.
Despite his criticisms, Murphy advises caution in parting ways with Ten Hag, emphasizing the need for a well-defined succession plan before making any managerial changes.
He warns against repeating past mistakes of hastily appointing interim managers without long-term planning, stressing the importance of strategic decision-making.
