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Even in glory, Erik ten Hag showed why Manchester United had to sack him

Erik ten Hag: Even in Glory, the Signs Were There

Manchester United's Triumph Overshadowed by Lingering Concerns

Erik ten Hag's tenure at Manchester United began with a beacon of hope, lighting up the path towards a brighter future. The Dutch manager, renowned for his tactical acumen and unwavering determination, steered the Red Devils to their first major trophy in six years, lifting the Carabao Cup.

However, beneath the celebratory facade, cracks began to emerge, hinting at deeper issues that would eventually lead to ten Hag's downfall. The Carabao Cup triumph, while a significant milestone, failed to mask the glaring deficiencies that plagued United throughout the season.

Tactical Inconsistencies and Lack of Cohesion

Ten Hag's tactical approach, initially lauded for its innovative principles, soon unravelled into a confusing tapestry of formations and strategies. The team lacked a cohesive identity, often resembling a disjointed group of individuals rather than a well-oiled machine.

Players were frequently deployed out of position, their strengths underutilized, and their weaknesses exposed. The absence of a clear tactical blueprint hampered United's ability to control games, leaving them vulnerable to counterattacks and set pieces.

Defensive Frailties and Goalkeeping Woes

United's defense, once a source of stability, transformed into a liability under ten Hag's stewardship. The team conceded an alarming number of goals, particularly from set pieces, a testament to the systemic deficiencies in organization and positional awareness.

The goalkeeping situation further compounded United's defensive woes. David de Gea, a long-time stalwart between the sticks, endured a season plagued by uncharacteristic errors, undermining the team's confidence and stability at the back.

Player Unrest and Dressing Room Tensions

As the season wore on, rumors of player unrest began to surface, casting a shadow over ten Hag's tenure. Senior players reportedly questioned his tactics and training methods, creating a divide within the squad.

The dressing room atmosphere, once harmonious, deteriorated into a breeding ground for discontent and cliques. The lack of unity and trust among the players hindered their ability to perform as a collective, further exacerbating the team's on-field struggles.