Siddharth Juyal
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes backs manager Erik ten Hag as uncertainty looms amid Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s bid
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes insisted that manager Erik ten Hag is the right man for the job at the club. Sir Jim Ratcliffe has bid to buy 25% of the club’s shares pending a vote of approval from United’s board. The Dutchman’s future is uncertain as Ratcliffe wishes to assume control of the football operation under the potential Glazers-Ratcliffe ownership.
United have struggled with an injury crisis and consistency as they suffered six losses from 13 matches in all competitions. However, the Red Devils won their last three consecutive matches to ease off some of the built-up pressure.
Ten Hag has been unable to find the correct balance within the squad as they have shown vulnerabilities everywhere. When United deployed an attacking style of play, they left too much space for opponents to exploit. On the other hand, they suffered from a lack of creativity and goal-scoring opportunities with cautious style of play.
Scholes told TNT Sports (h/t Mirror) that Ten Hag has impressed him with his hard decision-making and needs more time. He said:
“I think he’s been a very good coach so far, I like him. He’s been ruthless in a job that is incredibly difficult. Has he put a team together that is good enough to challenge for the Premier League? No, but it looked like a good start towards the end of last season.”
Critics have criticized Ten Hag for his man-management style at United. Many critics implied that the Dutchman needed to change his style to compensate for more reputable talents at United. The United manager did not have the egos of world-class players as one of the dealing factors at Ajax.
The Dutchman has spent around €450m since joining the Red Devils in the summer of 2022. Ten Hag signed many players he was familiar with, during his former reigns at various clubs.
Many fans and football experts have criticized the transfer decision-making. The critics argued that United require a higher level of quality and every former acquaintance would not fit that profile.
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However, Scholes’ support is valid as Ten Hag needs time to shape the team in his style of play. The 53-year-old won the Carling Cup for United last season which ended a six-year trophy drought at Old Trafford. The current season’s poor start surprised everyone as the Red Devils achieved a trophy and top three last season.
Fans anticipated further progress with the return of Champions League football, but the team can still salvage the season. Ten Hag deserve the opportunity to set things right as we’re not even at the mid-point of the current season.
