Erik ten Hag’s future and the domino effect on three Manchester United stars
Manchester United have endured a difficult season as pressure on Erik ten Hag weighs heavy. The Dutch manager is fighting for his future at Old Trafford beyond the ongoing season, as an inconsistent season could see him sacked by the club.
The former Ajax Amsterdam manager won the League Cup in his maiden season, which was followed by an appearance in the second successive FA Cup final this season as the Red Devils face noisy neighbours Manchester City at Wembley Stadium later this month. However, an early exit in the Champions League, complemented by an underwhelming league campaign, has left his managerial role in a precarious position.
If the officials at United decide to move on from the 54-year-old’s services, United will not only enter into a new project but also give a clean slate to players currently at Old Trafford. The roster at Carrington United Training Centre has a few players that could have an opportunity to rejuvenate their careers with the Premier League giants if Erik ten Hag is shown the door.
Clean slate or second chance? How Ten Hag’s fate impacts United players
Jadon Sancho
The BVB Dortmund winger has been subject to a public dispute with the Dutch manager and was sidelined by ten Hag before he eventually left on loan. Sancho has been loving his time back in the Bundesliga and has been playing some exceptional football for the UEFA Champions League semi-finalists.
He is reluctant to make a Manchester United return with Erik ten Hag at the helm and would prefer to explore opportunities away from the club. However, there is a possibility that the Manchester City academy graduate could find his way into United’s eleven if the current gaffer is sacked.
Antony
The Brazilian winger has struggled to replicate the success he enjoyed under Erik ten Hag at Ajax. He has struggled to dribble past opponents and impact the team in the current setup, as United faithful grow frustrated with his outcome vis-à-vis the price that the club paid to bring him to Old Trafford.
Erik ten Hag publicly claimed off-field issues in January, condemning Antony’s struggles at Manchester United. He went on to prefer youngster Omari Forson over the Brazilian winger, signaling a potential loss of faith in Antony’s ability to overcome his challenges.
Casemiro
The former Real Madrid midfielder has struggled in the current United’s set-up as well. He has been consistently exposed defensively and has been lacking players around him in the build-up, as United’s midfield has not been able to provide the support Casemiro needs to excel.
Moreover, the Dutch gaffer has set up his midfielder in a way where the Brazilian cannot be used as an effective counterpresser, as opponents have continued to expose Casemiro. He has been dribbled past this season more by opponents this season.
A player of his stature can still be effective in the right environment, and a managerial change could aid his time in England.
More Manchester United News-
- Bruno Fernandes leads top 5 leagues in stat that further proves why Manchester United must retain him at all cost
- Erik ten Hag reveals missed transfer opportunity that stopped Man Utd from playing the ‘Ajax way’
- Manchester United are falling behind in race for €50m rated Premier League rival star
Erik ten Hag has a contract at Old Trafford that runs until 2025; however, the chances of the club running his contract out look bleak at the moment.
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