On some days it may feel like Erik Ten Hag should be given a break from the speculations, especially after a thumping performance like that against Barnsley in midweek. Although being the manager of Manchester United means no amount of fingers pointed are enough fingers pointed.

Given the rich history and standards of the club, everyone expects them to be in top form week in and week out. However, looking in the direction of managers every time there is a setback wouldn’t necessarily be it either. Some days you can’t help but wonder if the players who’ve been there for years are going to step up.

Arsenal legend defends Erik Ten Hag amid his exit demands 

It is not a secret half of the fan base isn’t impressed by Erik Ten Hag’s implementation this season. After his shopping season for players was over, his club is currently 10th on the Premier League table. While many fingers are pointed at the manager, Arsenal legend Emmanuel Petit has some pointed at the players. Talking about taking responsibility, the former Gunner appeared on BetMGM’s The Lineup saying:

“I don’t agree with all of the criticism around Erik ten Hag.”

“It’s so hard for a club when they keep changing managers as much as Manchester United have and I actually look at the players there and think they are hiding behind him.”

“I don’t like it. These are players with real pedigree and they hide behind him instead of fronting up and doing a job for the team.”

While it may make less sense, Petit has a point. Ten Hag has shuffled the squad plenty over the years. But it is worth noticing he put his faith in a few players who have been there since day 1. To start with, their skipper Bruno Fernandes has had an awfully quiet season until now. It’ll be important for his seasoned players to show up at big stages backing the faith of their manager. 

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Erik Ten Hag took over from Ralf Rangnick in April 2022. Although there hasn’t been much to show, he still backs his club to win trophies. Amid all the squad shifts and transfers, the instability cannot be ignored. As Petit mentioned, the restoration of standards is a gradual process, and having faith in the system is an important way to get on with it. 

After the dominating display against Barnsley, they will face Crystal Palace on Saturday. Ten Hag will look to keep the team on winning terms. And also look at getting revenge on Palace as they beat United 4-0 last time out at this fixture.