The question of whether Erik ten Hag should stay or leave Manchester United has split the club’s fanbase. After a disappointing season, which saw United fail to secure a top-four finish and perform poorly in European competition, the pressure on the Dutch manager has intensified.
Despite a promising start with a Carabao Cup victory and a third-place finish in the Premier League in his debut season, the current campaign has been marred by underperformance.
Critics argue that the team’s decline under ten Hag’s management is evident in their defensive vulnerabilities and lack of attacking prowess. United have conceded a concerning number of goals across all competitions and struggled to find the back of the net consistently. Many fans have criticized ten Hag’s tactical approach, which they believe relies too heavily on individual brilliance rather than a coherent strategic plan.
Furthermore, ten Hag’s recruitment decisions have come under scrutiny, particularly the expensive acquisition of Antony from Ajax, who has failed to make a significant impact on the pitch. The team’s poor form since the Carabao Cup final in 2023, including a humiliating defeat to Liverpool, has only added to the pressure on the manager.
However, supporters advocating for ten Hag to stay highlight the unprecedented injury crisis that has plagued the team throughout the season. The manager has been forced to contend with numerous absences, especially in defense, which has disrupted team cohesion. Despite these challenges, there has been improvement in goal-scoring, with United showing attacking prowess in recent matches.
Moreover, ten Hag inherited a team in transition with various off-field issues, including concerns about player discipline and an ownership saga. Despite these challenges, he has managed to lead the team to three cup finals in two years and secured the club’s first trophy in five years with the Carabao Cup triumph in 2023.
Financial constraints have further hindered ten Hag’s ability to strengthen the squad, limiting his options in the transfer market. However, he has shown faith in young talents like Rasmus Højlund, Kobbie Mainoo, and Alejandro Garnacho, nurturing them for the future.
Some argue that the root of United’s problems lies beyond the manager, pointing to structural issues within the club’s hierarchy since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement. With new ownership and changes in the backroom staff, there is optimism that ten Hag could benefit from a revamped support system if retained.
The decision regarding ten Hag’s future at Manchester United remains contentious, with valid arguments on both sides. Whether he stays or goes, the club faces significant challenges in rebuilding and returning to its former glory.
