Erik ten Hag: Can He Revitalize Manchester United This Season?

Erik ten Hag remained Manchester United manager this summer after successfully convincing INEOS about his vision for the club during a difficult Premier League season. His campaign was salvaged with an unexpected FA Cup final victory over Manchester City in May. Despite initial skepticism, Ten Hag's structure and strategy have begun to show promise.

Ten Hag's Vision for Manchester United 2.0

With Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS acquiring a 25% stake in the club, the new ownership had the opportunity to consider potential managerial changes. Instead, they decided to support the incumbent boss, providing him with the runway needed for the upcoming season. So, what is the plan moving forward for Ten Hag and Manchester United?

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New Signings: De Ligt and Mazraoui

With a solid transfer strategy underway, Ten Hag has bolstered his squad by signing Matthias De Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui for a total of £60 million. These additions emphasize the new management's commitment to improving the team's performance.

Could a False 9 be the Missing Link?

Critics have highlighted fundamental structural issues within United's squad, particularly in defensive coordination. Gary Neville remarked on the team's "schoolboy" errors in guilty games, with players often pressing individually rather than as a cohesive unit. This has resulted in significant gaps in United's midfield, which contributed to their relegation zone finishes.

In the FA Cup final, Ten Hag utilized Bruno Fernandes as a false nine, supporting a more stable midfield presence. This adaptation coincided with enhanced defensive discipline, as seen in Manchester United's notable victory over Manchester City. The team showcased a more solid formation throughout preseason, delighting fans with the aggressiveness and high-pressing style reminiscent of Ten Hag's work at Ajax.

Assessing Preseason Performances

During preseason matches against teams like Liverpool and Arsenal in the U.S., Jadon Sancho also embraced the false nine role, facilitating better link-up play with teammates Mason Mount and Amad Diallo. The flexibility demonstrated in these attacking formations has opened pathways for scoring opportunities, moving from the previously isolated striker role experienced last season.

Injuries and Tactical Adjustments

The absence of a reliable No. 9, with Rasmus Hojlund sidelined and Joshua Zirkzee recovering from injuries, has forced management to experiment tactically. However, there remains concern over defensive solidity, particularly as the team gravitates toward a more conservative setup.

Strengthening the Midfield: Ugarte Pursuit

United's midfield has underwhelmed at times, especially concerning Casemiro's performance last season. At 32 years old, the question lingers—can he remain a sufficient defensive shield? To fill any void, United has targeted PSG's defensive midfielder, Manuel Ugarte, known for his remarkable tackling ability. Ugarte's 98 tackles last season highlighted his skill, even while part of a squad that held the ball extensively.

If Ugarte joins, he would provide indispensable positional intelligence, which is vital for United’s defensive strategy. Meanwhile, alternatives such as Sofyan Amrabat and Youssouf Fofana may step up should negotiations falter.

Injury Concerns Ahead of the Season

As the Premier League season approaches, Ten Hag faces another challenge with a growing injury list. Key player Hojlund won’t be available at the start, alongside Luke Shaw and recent signee Leny Yoro who is ruled out for significant time. Shaw's absence will rely heavily on Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire to solidify the defensive unit.

Young Talents Rising

Kobbie Mainoo emerged as a bright prospect in the previous season, and now another academy graduate, Toby Collyer, has drawn attention during the preseason. Collyer's impressive display alongside Casemiro suggests he could secure first-team opportunities sooner than anticipated.

Conclusion

Ultimately, Erik ten Hag appears to be on a quest to revamp Manchester United's structure and player performances. While challenges loom large, including injury concerns and restructuring the midfield, his strategies in utilizing players effectively may yet guide the club back to its winning ways this season. The upcoming matches will prove critical in evaluating whether his vision can be realized amidst the volatility of football.