Erik ten Hag: Excessive Workload Affects Manchester United Performance

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag attributes inconsistent player performances to excessive workload, citing overload as a significant factor. Despite a recent FA Cup victory over Liverpool, the team struggled in their subsequent match against Brentford.  Erik ten Hag emphasizes that the demands placed on top players exceed reasonable limits affecting performance levels.

He observes that Manchester City also faced ups and downs, attributing these to the demanding schedule and international obligations. Erik ten Hag emphasizes the need to balance training intensity to avoid further strain on players. He acknowledges the impact of fixture congestion, particularly exacerbated by events like the 2022 World Cup which continues to affect squad fitness.

The situation has prompted calls from players’ union Fifpro for better management of fixture congestion especially with the expansion of tournaments like the Club World Cup and the Champions League.