Erik ten Hag currently has a win rate of 66% following his first campaign with Manchester
United. And, whilst it represents only a small sample when compared to the likes of Alex
Ferguson - the new boss’ impressive ratio still highlights the stellar job he has done so far.
The Dutchman’s plans are arguably ahead of schedule; in his first season, United finished
third in the Premier League, also winning a League Cup and reaching the FA Cup final. His
side also qualified for the Champions League after a four-year absence.
Entering his second campaign with the Red Devils, there will be revised expectations to
achieve even more in terms of overall playing style and major honours.
Will Erik ten Hag lead Man Utd to the Premier League title?
Well, it depends…
Manchester United have perhaps their most realistic chance of winning a first league title
since 2013. But manager Erik ten Hag will need to address some vital areas to mount a serious challenge in the English top flight.
The Right Back Situation
Despite spending big on defensive reinforcements in recent seasons - the position of right-back has been somewhat neglected.
The arrival of Aaron Wan Bissaka in 2019 was supposed to end the club's search in that position, and whilst the Englishman is still one of the league’s most accomplished tacklers, he is often positionally naive and fails to deliver further up the field in an attacking capacity.
Diogo Dalot has proven a solid alternative, but the Portuguese defender is less versatile and
explosive as Ten Hag will likely be looking for going forward.
Trust In Youth
Erik ten Hag has never been one to shy away from placing faith in young academy players.
Whilst at Ajax, the Dutchman successfully developed the likes of defender Matthijs De Ligt
and Donny Van Der Beek into potent and integral first-team stars.
Manchester United possess some promising youth talents of their own. Yet thus far, Ten
Hag has kept his youngsters firmly on the fringes of senior action, Kobbie Mainoo and
Facundo Pellestri, the two starlets still waiting for their chance.
Pellestri has shown promise despite limited game time, making his competitive debut for
Manchester United in January 2023 and his first senior start against Real Betis in the Europa
League two months later. Mainhoo has made three appearances for the club so far.
Oversee Garnacho's Development
Alejandro Garnacho's breakthrough season was a welcomed surprise to everyone at Old
Trafford. The Argentine teenager established himself during the 2022/23 campaign, playing 34 times and scoring five goals whilst providing a handful of assists.
Garnacho is reportedly known to have a rogue personality, which, so far, Erik ten Hag has kept under control. The Dutch manager has expertly balanced the young attacker’s game time and kept his feet on the ground - which the United manager must continue to do if the player is to reach his true potential.
It has benefited him immensely. Garnacho can maintain his focus on the pitch and use his talents efficiently to cause the opposition numerous problems - his confident, driving runs have already become one of his trademarks.
Keep Rashford Firing
Marcus Rashford's 2022/23 season was without doubt his finest in eight years at Old Trafford. The Englishman scored 30 goals in all competitions and has now netted over 120
times for United.
One of Ten Hag's main priorities this campaign is to ensure Rashford's performance in front of goal remains consistent and scoring prolific. Whether he is deployed from the left or played centrally, the continuing uncertainty surrounding United's signing of a new number nine means it is incredibly important to clarify Rashford's role. If he can lead the line with the help of other supporting stars then the Red Devils are in with a real shot at the Premier League crown.
Stop The Self Implosion
There has been a definite attitude issue at United. It is still evident and lingering amongst the squad that became abundant during the reigns of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralph Ragnick.
Their 'self-implosion' typically occurs when the team find themselves playing poorly and as a
result, quickly leaking goals - then unable to prevent a heavy defeat. Prime examples of this
mindset were clearly apparent during United's 4-0 defeat at the hands of Brighton in August
2022 and their infamous 7-0 thrashing at the hands of bitter rivals Liverpool.
Erik ten Hag must "stop the rot" setting in when an opponent is outplaying his side. His in-
game management has been questioned. He will either need to make positive changes to
engineer an unlikely comeback or learn to concede defeat and minimise the damage.
Conclusion
Erik ten Hag will fail in leading Manchester United to the Premier League title this season.
His side should present a serious challenge to fellow contenders such as Arsenal, Liverpool
and Manchester City. But United require further signings to bolster their squad and the time
to embed them.
Ten Hag must continue to build, aiming to make progress in the Champions League’s latter
stages and compete for major honours.
New signings - goalkeeper Andre Onana and Ex-Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount must settle quickly - with rumoured transfer deals such as Atalanta's Rasmus Hojlund needing to be resolved during pre-season.
If the Dutchman is afforded the time, he will succeed in pushing Man United even closer to
the title that has eluded them for more than a decade!
Who will win the 2023/24 Premier League title?
Man City
Arsenal
Man United
Liverpool