Players Question Erik ten Hag as United Struggles Continue

As the shadows of uncertainty loom over Old Trafford, Erik ten Hag, the Manchester United manager appointed in the summer of 2022, faces an onslaught of scrutiny.

The Athletic has delved deep into the corridors of Manchester United, conversing with insiders who prefer the veil of anonymity to maintain club relations. The crux of the matter? Ten Hag's future at Manchester United.

Despite United enduring their most dismal season start in over six decades, there's a consensus that a managerial change isn't the panacea. Ten Hag's job isn't hanging by a thread—yet. The belief that football is a fickle game of fortunes persists, with hopes that the forthcoming matches against Fulham, Copenhagen, and Luton Town could steer the ship back on course.

Ten Hag's approach has been straightforward, eschewing excuses amidst injuries, disciplinary issues, and the ongoing strategic review at the club. Off-field chaos, including the Mason Greenwood situation, allegations against Antony, and the Jadon Sancho dispute, are viewed as contributing factors to the on-field performances, yet opinions vary on Ten Hag’s adjustment to the Premier League and his fit for the club's current needs.

The locker room's mood has shifted, with some players beginning to question Ten Hag's intense methods and tactical decisions, such as controversial substitutions and team selections. Yet, it's not unanimous dissent; some players remain supportive, recognizing the same attributes that garnered praise last season.

Key decisions on ten Hag's fate would involve a top-tier management trio: Joel Glazer, Richard Arnold, and John Murtough. Murtough's pivotal role in ten Hag's appointment underscores the club's commitment to a long-term vision, despite the looming prospect of Sir Jim Ratcliffe's partial takeover raising questions about future management structures.

Financially, parting ways with ten Hag would be costly, requiring around £15 million in compensation, not including his coaching staff's potential exit fees. With United’s finances already under the microscope, such a move would further complicate the club's financial fair play compliance.

The blame for United’s struggles isn't squarely on ten Hag's shoulders. The ownership's unpopularity, structural overhauls in the football department, and questionable transfer strategies have all played their part. Moreover, Ten Hag's challenges have been compounded by a staggering £330 million expenditure without a clear on-field identity and persistent injury issues affecting team cohesion.

While ten Hag navigates through the storm, his tactics, team management, and United's administrative and financial decisions will all play pivotal roles in shaping his tenure's trajectory at Manchester United. The games ahead could prove critical in setting the direction for his managerial journey with the club.