What Needs to be Done to Salvage Manchester United’s Woes?
Manchester United, once a powerhouse of English and European football, has endured a tumultuous few seasons. With Erik ten Hag brought in to revitalize the club, it’s clear that significant changes are still required. While there have been glimpses of progress, the club remains short of its former glory. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what needs to be done to salvage Manchester United’s current state.
1. Squad Overhaul and Better Recruitment
One of the most significant issues facing Manchester United has been their inconsistent and often ineffective recruitment strategy. Over the past few years, the club has spent vast sums of money, but many signings have failed to live up to expectations. Even ten Hag, who brought in several fresh faces, still finds gaps in key areas.
United’s attack has suffered from a lack of cohesion and efficiency. According to analysts, the team’s biggest issue is not just about signing new stars but finding the right mix of players that can work together. For example, while players like Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho have performed well in patches, there remains a lack of consistency in how the team attacks as a unit(
). Additionally, bringing in more progressive midfielders like Joao Neves or Stiller could improve the dynamism in midfield(
2. Resolving the Attacking Woes
One of the most glaring problems for United this season has been their inability to convert chances into goals. While injuries and fitness issues have played a part, much of the blame falls on the attacking philosophy. Players like Rashford and Garnacho, while individually talented, haven’t always been able to provide consistent service to striker Rasmus Hojlund.
Despite limited chances, Hojlund has shown incredible efficiency, often scoring with fewer touches in dangerous areas than his counterparts. This signals a need for a tactical shift, where the focus is more on providing him with the ball in key areas rather than relying on individual brilliance from the wings(
).
3. Defensive Stability
Manchester United has consistently struggled with defensive lapses that have cost them crucial points. Injuries to key defenders like Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martínez have exposed the lack of depth and quality at the back. Harry Maguire, while once a solid presence, has struggled with form and confidence, leading to frequent errors.
United needs a consistent and reliable defensive structure, and this begins with better recruitment. Finding defenders who can slot into Erik ten Hag’s system, where ball-playing ability is prioritized, will be critical. A more cohesive backline will also ease pressure on the midfield and attackers, allowing the team to control games better.
4. Midfield Revolution
Manchester United’s midfield has often lacked the creativity and control needed to dominate games, especially against top opposition. While Bruno Fernandes provides an attacking spark, there is often a disconnect between the defensive and attacking phases. Players like Casemiro have added defensive solidity, but there needs to be a more balanced approach to controlling possession(
).
Bringing in younger, dynamic midfielders such as Joao Neves could bridge the gap between attack and defense, providing the much-needed link that United’s midfield often lacks. A balanced midfield will allow United to dominate games more consistently, reducing their dependence on moments of individual brilliance.
5. Improving Player Fitness and Reducing Injuries
One of Manchester United’s recurring problems has been the high number of injuries to key players. From attackers like Anthony Martial to defenders like Varane, injuries have disrupted the team’s rhythm. In modern football, fitness is crucial, and a club of United’s stature must prioritize the prevention of these recurring issues.
To address this, United could consider enhancing their medical and physio teams, integrating more data-driven solutions to monitor player fitness, and adjusting training regimes. Additionally, having a deeper squad will allow ten Hag to rotate players more effectively, reducing the risk of overuse injuries(
)(
6. Revamping the Club’s Structure
Manchester United’s issues aren’t just confined to the pitch. The club’s off-field structure has often come under scrutiny, particularly regarding the Glazer family’s ownership. Fans have been vocal about their dissatisfaction with the lack of transparency, and many have called for changes at the top. Improving the club’s operational structure, including more competent leadership in recruitment, financial planning, and day-to-day footballing operations, will help set the club on the right path.
Furthermore, ten Hag’s vision must be fully supported by the club’s hierarchy, both in terms of recruitment and long-term planning. Successful clubs like Manchester City and Liverpool have thrived because their managers have had a clear, long-term vision that’s been supported at all levels of the club.
7. A Clear Tactical Identity
One of the major issues with United over the past few years has been the lack of a consistent tactical identity. Under Sir Alex Ferguson, the team was known for its attacking football, high intensity, and ability to dominate games. Since his retirement, the team’s identity has fluctuated with each new manager.
Erik ten Hag has shown glimpses of instilling his philosophy at United, focusing on possession-based football with quick transitions. However, more time and support are needed for him to fully implement his ideas. Patience will be key for fans and the board as they look to give ten Hag the time required to shape the team in his image.
8. Addressing the Ownership Issue
The Glazers’ ownership has been a constant source of friction between the club and its fans. Many supporters believe that the Glazers have prioritized profits over the team’s success, and this sentiment has only grown in recent years. While the club remains one of the richest in the world, much of that revenue is perceived to benefit the owners rather than being reinvested into the team.
The potential sale of the club, or at least a change in the ownership structure, could bring much-needed relief to the fans and potentially allow for better decision-making at the top level. A more engaged and football-focused ownership group could provide the stability and financial backing needed to support Erik ten Hag’s project fully(
)(
Conclusion
Salvaging Manchester United’s current woes will require a comprehensive and patient approach. From overhauling the squad and recruitment strategy to addressing off-field issues, the club must rebuild in all areas. Erik ten Hag has laid the groundwork, but it will take continued support, better recruitment, and perhaps even new ownership to return United to their former glory. While the road ahead is challenging, the foundation is there for a revival, and with the right changes, United can once again compete at the highest levels of world football.