How has the campaign started for United?
In one word, dreadfully. Initially, Ten Hag's side managed to paper over the cracks with an unconvincing three-game winning streak. But that early success was short-lived, as two 3-0 home losses in just four days brought them crashing back to reality.
Their neighbors, Manchester City, handed them a bitter defeat in the Old Trafford derby, and it could have been worse if not for some heroic saves by their goalkeeper. The real embarrassment came in the Carabao Cup, where a repeat of February's final against Newcastle resulted in a humiliating exit. The frustration among the fans is palpable, and many are questioning whether Ten Hag is the right man for the job.
How bad have United been?
To put it mildly, United's performances have been underwhelming, leading to results that make for grim reading. Losing to City meant that they have already suffered five defeats in their first ten Premier League matches. This is the worst start to a league campaign since the 1986-87 season, and it's an alarming statistic for a club of United's stature.
To compound their misery, Newcastle inflicted the eighth defeat in 15 matches in all competitions, marking their worst start to a season since 1962-63. The fans who have witnessed decades of glory are now enduring a turbulent period, wondering when the tide will turn.
Are there any mitigating factors?
Injuries have played a significant role in United's struggles this season, especially in defense. The absence of key defenders has left the team unbalanced, and the lack of depth is evident. Injuries alone cannot explain all the problems, but they have certainly contributed to a sense of instability within the squad.
The tough early schedule, with fixtures against top teams, made it even harder to build confidence. Moreover, off-field issues, including the ongoing ownership turmoil, have created a constant background noise that's unsettling. The Glazer family, who have been deeply unpopular with fans since their leveraged buyout in 2005, were rumored to be leaving the club, but those hopes have been dashed, leaving the club in limbo.
What is the latest on the ownership?
The Glazer family's continued ownership remains a major point of contention among United fans. The hope for a change arose when the club announced a strategic review in November. However, this process has dragged on, with frustrated Sheikh Jassim recently withdrawing from the negotiations. As a result, Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos group seems poised to purchase around 25% of the club. Though nothing has been officially finalized, this move would give them significant influence over sporting matters.
This potential ownership change comes at a crucial time for the club, as there are clear areas on the footballing side that need a shake-up. The new owners will closely monitor the managerial situation as they seek to reinvigorate the club.
What has gone wrong under Ten Hag?
Erik ten Hag started his Manchester United journey by ending the club's six-year wait for silverware, securing the Carabao Cup in his first season. However, the afterglow of that promising campaign has faded. The Dutch manager, despite his prior successes with Ajax, has struggled to establish a clear playing style for United. His squad selections have raised eyebrows, and some of his signings, like Antony, have failed to live up to expectations.
Reports of unrest in the dressing room have surfaced, with players questioning Ten Hag's meticulous and disciplinarian approach. Jadon Sancho, once a marquee signing, has been sidelined from the first team. In the face of these challenges, Ten Hag insists that the team must "stand up" and work "shoulder by shoulder" to overcome their struggles.’
What is next for United?
Erik ten Hag's position is under scrutiny, and he has defiantly labeled himself a "fighter." To silence growing doubts about his managerial capabilities, he needs results quickly. There's no time to dwell on their recent woes as they prepare for a Premier League clash against Fulham. A challenging Champions League fixture against Copenhagen follows, with their progression from the group potentially hanging in the balance.
A home league match against promoted Luton is on the horizon, followed by a November break. United can't afford to limp into that break, as a demanding schedule awaits in the form of trips to Everton, Galatasaray, and Newcastle. The road ahead is uncertain, and the Red Devils must find solutions to their myriad problems to restore their former glory.
In conclusion, Manchester United is grappling with a crisis on multiple fronts. Poor results, injuries, ownership turmoil, and managerial issues have converged to create a turbulent environment. The club's loyal fan base is eager for a turnaround, and the upcoming fixtures will be crucial in determining their fate. It remains to be seen whether they can weather this storm and emerge stronger on the other side.
Manchester United's abysmal start to the season, plagued by injuries, ownership turmoil, and questions over Erik ten Hag's managerial capabilities, raises doubts about their immediate future. This article explores the multifaceted crisis engulfing the once-mighty Red Devils.
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