Manchester United’s season has been chaotic just six games into the Premier League, forcing Erik Ten Hag to implement some adjustments.
Here are five changes Ten Hag needs to make to prepare for the upcoming tough fixtures, starting with the away match against FC Porto in the Europa League…
Control the Chaos
The first goal Tottenham scored against Manchester United was a replica of several goals conceded by Ten Hag’s team over the past two seasons.
Micky van de Ven, a center-back, charged through the lines before delivering a pinpoint cross for Brennan Johnson to tap into an empty net. The fragility in Manchester United’s structural organization was laid bare. Clearly, the issue lies not in personnel.
Ten Hag has reinforced the midfield, but for a stronger midfield, the positions must complement each other. This is something United has yet to achieve.
A Pair of Strikers
Joshua Zirkzee has reluctantly played as the lone striker in recent matches, but he is a number 9.5, preferring to create rather than finish. Meanwhile, Rasmus Hojlund is a natural center forward.
This is a striking partnership that Ten Hag needs to explore and even build around, provided they get off to a positive start. To do this, the Dutch coach may have to drop a winger, but such a change is necessary, as fans have been waiting for it for a long time.
Both Hojlund and Zirkzee work hard off the ball, so pressing from the front will still be effective even if United plays with two strikers. This could make the Red Devils’ attack more explosive.
Tighten the Midfield
When Manchester United signed Manuel Ugarte, it was clear that the former PSG star was not the answer to the problems at Old Trafford. However, he is still a crucial part of the solution.
Compared to his teammates, Ugarte has a more defensive mindset. He also needs support from a well-structured system. Casemiro can assist the Uruguayan at this time with his experience. The Brazilian star knows how to push forward while still contributing defensively with his tackling and interception abilities. Additionally, full-backs can drift inside to bolster the midfield and support ball progression.
Trust Amad Diallo
Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford have very similar approaches. Both prefer to run behind opposing defenses and are often neutralized by low blocks. This is why they are highly effective as substitutes against tired legs.
In contrast, Amad thrives in tight spaces, connecting with teammates and unlocking opposing defenses. The difference brought by the Ivorian winger is something Ten Hag needs in every match.
Be Ruthless
Red Devils fans can accept defeat, but they will never tolerate a lack of effort from players. That’s why Garnacho received applause at Old Trafford during the 0-3 loss for his efforts.
Christian Eriksen’s comments after the match against Twente were controversial. The Danish player admitted that the opponents “wanted it more,” and this is something the Manchester United stars need to reflect on. Meanwhile, Ten Hag must decisively eradicate this mentality and revitalize his players’ spirit.