After a disappointing season opener, Erik ten Hag is under increased pressure following Manchester United’s 3-0 loss to Liverpool at Old Trafford.
United has now lost two of their first three Premier League matches as they head into the September international break.
Ten Hag, who narrowly retained his position over the summer, finds himself under scrutiny once again.
Luis Diaz scored twice in the first half for Liverpool, with Mohamed Salah adding a third goal in the second half, securing an easy victory over a lackluster United side.
Casemiro, who was at fault for both of Diaz’s goals, has faced increased scrutiny, especially after the signing of Manuel Ugarte. Toby Collyer replaced Casemiro at halftime.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s doubts about Casemiro were justified. Ratcliffe, who reviewed United’s finances before investing, had reservations about the £60 million spent on the Brazilian midfielder, now in his 30s.
Despite Casemiro’s stellar first season after signing from Real Madrid, his performance has been in decline.
In the match against Liverpool, Casemiro was exposed, losing the ball for both of Diaz’s goals and failing to cover enough ground.
His substitution by a 20-year-old with only 30 minutes of senior football experience highlighted his struggles.
With Ugarte now part of the squad, United hopes he can step up after the international break, as starting Casemiro in the holding midfield role again seems untenable.
Joshua Zirkzee, who had an impressive start to his United career, showed raw potential but also made mistakes in the match against Liverpool, highlighting the need for more finesse in United’s attack.
Meanwhile, Mason Mount’s absence affected United’s pressing game, as Bruno Fernandes and Zirkzee couldn’t replicate the same intensity, allowing Liverpool to capitalize.
In a dramatic turn, Sir Jim Ratcliffe has reportedly decided to sack Erik ten Hag after the shocking defeat to Liverpool, stating that he does not want to see the manager at Old Trafford any longer.
