Manchester United have lost to West Ham, and now Erik ten Hag’s position seems more and more precarious.
United slipped to 14th place after their defeat, which followed a controversial VAR penalty that handed the Hammers the winning goal.
Once again, it was the same old story for United up front as they failed to take their chances, with the club the third lowest scorers in the league.
Frustration Among Players and Club Leadership
It’s United’s worst European run in 41 years, following a 1-1 Europa League draw with Fenerbahce, with one win in 11 games and a six-game winless run.
According to talkSPORT, Senior players have reportedly grown discontent with the team rotations under Ten Hag, and questions about his tactics are getting louder.
A notable one was Marcus Rashford being benched despite netting three in two games, compromising his form, and sparking talk he was looking to move on as he didn’t feel he had a’stable project’ at United.
There have also been concerns about the underuse of £50 million summer signing Manuel Ugarte, who has only played 348 minutes in seven appearances.
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Ten Hag Potential Replacements
Former Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez is among the candidates reportedly being considered by the United leadership.
A potential deal was discussed with the Spaniard when United’s CEO led a delegation to Barcelona. Thomas Frank of Brentford, Julian Nagelsmann, and Eddie Howe of Newcastle are also rumoured to be on the shortlist, with Howe having a proven working relationship with United football director Dan Ashworth.
With performances and an atmosphere at Old Trafford becoming increasingly tense, it is to be seen how long United’s hierarchy can continue to back ten Hag in the face of mounting pressure and growing discontent.