Erik ten Hag's United: One Step Forward, Two Steps Back?

Erik ten Hag’s tenure at Manchester United is facing early scrutiny in the new season, despite summer optimism following an FA Cup final win, new signings and fan support. United’s start has been inconsistent with just three wins from eight games including a penalty shootout loss to Manchester City in the Community Shield. The 1-1 Europa League draw against Twente revealed recurring problems for Manchester United.

Both Christian Eriksen and Erik ten Hag acknowledged that the Dutch side “wanted it more.” Offensively, United have struggled with only two games where they scored more than one goal. Their chance conversion rate stands at a poor seven percent and no player has scored more than once in the Premier League. Despite creating chances, the team has underperformed their expected goals (xG) in five of seven matches.

On the defensive side, there has been noticeable improvement with United conceding fewer goals than in Erik ten Hag’s previous seasons. Yet, the lack of ruthlessness in attack and the failure to capitalize on opportunities remain concerns. Former player Owen Hargreaves criticized the team’s inability to produce key moments when needed, a trait of past United sides.

Upcoming matches against Tottenham, Porto and Aston Villa are crucial as pressure mounts on Ten Hag to find solutions. While defensive solidity is a positive, United’s inconsistency is worrying. Ten Hag maintains the issues are short-term but with rising expectations, time could become a challenge if results don’t improve.