Erik Ten Hag's Tenure: A Disastrous Era for Manchester United
The current squad remains mediocre, with Ten Hag’s recruitment failing to address the team's significant weaknesses. His spending spree did little to improve performance, and many signings have not contributed effectively.
Opinion: Ten Hag Leaves a Mess Behind for His Successor
Manchester United Football Club has parted ways with Erik ten Hag, a decision that many believe should have come much earlier. Under his management, the Red Devils have repeatedly faced humiliations, making it clear that the club needed a change. The INEOS group's delay in ending Ten Hag's tenure is perplexing; no other major club would have awarded him a new two-year contract after the disastrous 2023-24 season.
The club’s issues have resurfaced early in the current season, making Ten Hag's position untenable. Reports indicate that he will receive a £17.5 million compensation package, a financial blow to INEOS, but one that likely won't have long-term repercussions. His departure leaves a substantial mess for his successor to manage.
A Lack of Direction
Following his unexpected FA Cup win, Ten Hag developed a misplaced sense of superiority. He boasted about winning the most trophies in English football during his tenure, claiming that the club hadn’t won anything for six years before his arrival. However, this arrogance disregards the fact that his teams have lost 22 matches across all competitions since last season, indicating a glaring inconsistency.
Statistics Tell a Troubling Story
In his 128 games at the helm, Ten Hag won 72, with a win percentage of 56%. While this record is commendable compared to some past managers, it is not enough for a club of United's stature. He had a notable 31.8% loss rate, with only David Moyes faring worse during his brief spell in charge.
Ten Hag’s time was marred by numerous embarrassing defeats, including heavy losses to rivals like Liverpool and Manchester City, and a shameful display against Coventry City in the FA Cup semi-finals. Despite previous managers facing scrutiny, none have compiled a record of failures that matches Ten Hag's.
Doubts and Disappointment
Critics have highlighted Ten Hag's lack of passion and failure to set high standards for his players. Former Blackburn Rovers striker Benni McCarthy emphasized that Ten Hag's conservative approach stunted the club's growth. Even after a dismal loss against West Ham, Ten Hag claimed luck was against him, an attitude that many felt did not reflect the urgency needed to turn the season around.
Looking Ahead
As Manchester United navigates this difficult phase, the focus will be on identifying a new manager who can restore some semblance of order. Names like Ruben Amorim are already being discussed, and there is hope that fresh leadership will inspire the squad. However, significant changes will be necessary, especially considering the challenges faced by the current players, many of whom are unfit for a club of United's caliber.
While Ten Hag’s departure offers a glimmer of hope for the future, the road ahead remains steep. United currently sits in the lower half of the Premier League, and the prospect of a return to competitiveness will require hard work and determination. For now, Ten Hag has set the bar low, leaving the next manager with the opportunity to rebuild and restore pride to a once-great club.
